FAQs & Step-by-Step Guides
Have questions about your pet’s care or curious about what to expect during a visit? Our FAQ and step-by-step guides are here to provide clear answers and helpful direction. Whether you’re preparing for an appointment, learning about routine services, or looking for quick guidance, you’ll find straightforward information to make caring for your pet easier and less stressful.
Step-by-Step Guides
Step 1: Schedule an Appointment
- Call us at (563) 583-8387, email us at staff@dbqpetmed.com, or use our online portal: Schedule Online ➝
- New clients (or clients not seen in 2+ years) will pay a non-refundable scheduling fee equal to the cost of the exam. This fee applies to your visit as long as you keep the appointment. Please call us to make this payment.
Step 2: Prepare for Your Visit
- Cats: Must arrive in a locked, secure carrier
- Dogs: Must be on a leash and under control
- Bring any previous medical or vaccination records if available
- If your pet has been ill recently, please let us know before the appointment
Step 3: Check In at the Front Desk
- Our reception team will confirm your information and update your pet’s medical record
- You may be asked to complete a brief form about your pet’s health and lifestyle so we can tailor vaccine recommendations
Step 4: Veterinary Exam
- One of our veterinarians will perform a comprehensive physical exam to ensure your pet is healthy enough for vaccines
- We’ll discuss which vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors (e.g., Rabies, Distemper, Bordetella, Leptospirosis, Lyme, Feline Leukemia)
- If your pet is due for preventive care (such as parasite prevention or lab work), we’ll review that as well
Step 5: Vaccinations
- Vaccines are administered by our veterinary team
- We’ll monitor your pet for a short time afterward for any immediate reactions (rare but possible)
- You’ll receive updated vaccine records for your files or boarding/grooming needs
Step 6: Check Out
- Our staff will review your invoice and accept payment (cash, check, credit card, CareCredit, or All Pet Card)
If needed, we’ll schedule your pet’s booster vaccines or next annual exam - You’ll leave with updated medical records and recommendations for ongoing care
That’s it! With this process, we ensure your pet is protected and you have everything you need for their health and safety.
Step 1: Contact Us to Schedule
- Call us at (563) 583-8387, email us at staff@dbqpetmed.com, or use our online portal: Schedule Online ➝
- Spays and neuters are performed Tuesday through Thursday mornings.
- New patients will need to have an exam performed by one of our veterinarians to ensure they are healthy enough and up to date on needed vaccines prior to scheduling surgery.
Step 2: Receive an Estimate & Instructions
- Our team will provide a detailed, all-inclusive surgical estimate covering the exam, anesthesia, pain management, IV catheter, and recovery.
Step 3: Pre-Surgery Preparation
- Dogs & Cats: No food after 10 p.m. the night before. A small amount of water is okay the morning of surgery.
- Pocket Pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, etc.): Do not fast. Please bring some of the pet’s food with you.
Step 4: Surgery Drop-Off
- Arrive between 8:00 and 8:20 a.m. on the day of surgery.
- A technician will review your pet’s care, answer your questions, and have you sign a surgical consent form and estimate.
- Your pet will be admitted for surgery that morning.
Step 5: Surgery & Recovery
- Your pet’s anesthesia will be tailored to their needs, and they’ll be closely monitored with advanced equipment (ECG, blood pressure, oxygen, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature).
- Pain management is provided before, during, and after surgery.
- Most pets are ready to go home after 2 p.m. the same day.
Step 6: Pick-Up & Discharge
- At pickup, we’ll review home care instructions, provide any necessary pain medications, and answer your questions.
- Your pet will also go home with a protective e-collar or donut if needed.
Step 7: Home Care & Follow-Up
- Keep your pet quiet and restrict activity for the recommended period.
- Monitor the incision daily for redness, swelling, or discharge.
- Call us right away if you notice anything concerning.
We do not provide 24-hour staffed care. If overnight monitoring is needed, we may recommend transfer to a 24-hour ER such as VCAVES Middleton, MVS Madison, UWMadison, or BluePearl Cedar Rapids.
We know how difficult this time is, and we’re here to guide you through the process with compassion and respect.
Step 1: Arrival & Check-In
- Our team will welcome you into a quiet, comfortable space.
- If possible, we’ll review aftercare choices (such as cremation, keepsakes, or paw prints) and complete payment at this time so you won’t need to stop at the front desk afterward.
Step 2: Discussing the Process
- Our technicians (or the veterinarian, if you prefer) will explain each step and answer questions.
- The veterinarian will help decide whether an IV catheter should be placed before sedation or if injectable sedation without a catheter would be best — based on your pet’s condition and your preference.
Step 3: Spending Time Together Before Sedation
- Unless your pet is unstable upon arrival, you’ll have as much time as you need before sedation begins.
- You are welcome to stay with your pet throughout the process.
Step 4: Sedation
- Your pet will first receive a sedative injection — either IV (through a catheter) or IM (into the muscle).
- IM sedation typically takes effect within about 5 minutes. If your pet is not fully relaxed, we can administer more medication to ensure comfort.
Step 5: Euthanasia
- When you feel ready and give permission, the veterinarian will administer the euthanasia injection IV.
- Most pets pass peacefully within 1–2 minutes, though in some cases it may take up to 5 minutes.
- The veterinarian will gently confirm when your pet’s heart has stopped.
Step 6: After the Procedure
- You may spend as much time with your pet afterward as you wish.
- When you are ready to leave, our team will prepare your pet’s body according to the aftercare option you selected.
Step 7: Aftercare & Cremation
- We partner with S&S Cremation, a trusted local business.
- If you choose private cremation, your pet’s remains are typically returned within 1 week.
- Our staff will call you immediately when your pet’s remains are back so you may pick them up at our clinic.
- Keepsakes such as paw prints can also be arranged.
Frequently Asked Questions at PetMed
Vaccination FAQs
For dogs, we recommend Rabies, Distemper, Bordetella, Leptospirosis, and Lyme. For cats, Rabies, Distemper, and Feline Leukemia are standard. Vaccines are tailored to your pet’s lifestyle, so our veterinarians will make a personalized plan. Learn more on our vaccine page ➝
We begin vaccines at 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks. Starting on time is key for full protection. See our vaccine schedule ➝
Yes. The City of Dubuque requires that all cats be current on rabies vaccination. This law is in place to protect both pets and people, since rabies is a fatal disease that can spread to humans and other animals.
Yes — dogs can catch canine influenza, especially in social settings like boarding or dog parks. Our veterinary clinic offers the canine flu vaccine to protect your pet but we need to pre-order the vaccine; so make sure you call us first if your pet needs the vaccine for boarding! Ask us if your dog should be vaccinated before travel, daycare, or boarding.
Most boarding and grooming facilities require Rabies and Distemper (core vaccines) for both dogs and cats. Dogs are often also required to have Bordetella (kennel cough), and many places now recommend or require Leptospirosis and Canine Influenza. We’re happy to provide documentation for your pet’s records.
Yes. In Iowa, rabies vaccination is required by law for all dogs once they are over 16 weeks of age. Rabies is a fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans and other animals, which is why vaccination is not only essential for your pet’s health, but also for public safety.
At PetMed of Key West, we recommend keeping your dog current on rabies vaccines as part of their routine wellness care. Depending on your dog’s age and vaccine history, the rabies vaccine is either given annually or every three years. Our team will guide you on the schedule that’s best for your pet.
Yes. Indoor cats can still be exposed to diseases via shoes, clothing, or open doors/windows. Rabies vaccination is required by Iowa law. Fleas, ticks, and heartworms can make their way inside. Protecting your indoor cat keeps them healthy and compliant with state law. See our vaccine schedule ➝
Most boarding kennels in Dubuque require Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella for dogs and Rabies, and Distemper for cats. Some also require canine influenza. Our veterinarians can update your pet’s vaccines and provide proof of vaccination for boarding.
Prevention FAQs
Healthy young pets: at least once a year. Senior pets or those with chronic medical conditions: every 6 months. Of course, anytime your pet is sick, they should be seen right away. Schedule Online ➝
Yes! Pets age faster than people, and many problems (like dental disease, arthritis, or organ issues) aren’t obvious until advanced. Yearly exams allow us to catch concerns early. Schedule Online ➝
- A yearly exam is also required to continue prescribing medications such as heartworm, flea, and tick prevention.
- Our veterinarian is available for after-hours emergencies only for current patients, so keeping up with exams ensures your pet qualifies for this care.
We advise Veterinarian-approved parasite prevention in our area. Heartworm preventives also protect against intestinal parasites that can affect both pets and humans.
Most pets should start prevention at 8 weeks old and at least 2 pounds. For very small or young pets, we use a specific version of Revolution. Our veterinarians will recommend the safest option for your pet’s age and size.
Grasp the tick close to the skin and twist/pull it out. Dispose of it safely. Too squeamish? Book a technician appointment and we’ll remove it for you. Since tickborne diseases can take 4 weeks to show, we recommend a tick disease test 4–5 weeks after removal.
Use tweezers or a tick tool to remove the tick close to the skin. Because Lyme disease is very common in Dubuque, Iowa, we recommend year-round tick prevention for dogs and cats. Call PetMed if your pet develops fever, lethargy, or joint pain after a tick bite. If your dog is not vaccinated for lyme disease, they should be tested for lyme disease 4-6 weeks after the bite.
Yes. Rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and reptiles all benefit from yearly exams. Many health problems in exotic pets develop silently and may not be obvious until advanced. Regular checkups allow us to monitor diet, husbandry, and overall health to catch issues early.
Yes — in Iowa, ticks can be active any time temperatures are above freezing, including winter months. Year-round parasite prevention is recommended for pets in our area. Preventives are available directly through our clinic — often at pricing lower than large online retailers! We also have the option for convenient home delivery through our secure online store. Visit our online store ➝
Yes — mosquitoes, which spread heartworm disease, are present throughout Iowa and can be active during warmer winter days. We recommend Veterinarian-approved parasite prevention. Visit our online store➝
Lyme disease is common in Iowa due to our high tick population. It can cause joint pain, fever, lameness, and even kidney damage. We strongly recommend Veterinarian-approved parasite prevention.
Fleas can enter your home on clothing, shoes, or other pets. Even indoor-only pets are at risk — and fleas can cause itching, allergies, or spread tapeworms. We recommend Veterinarian-approved parasite prevention. Visit our online store ➝
Prevent separation anxiety by gradually increasing time apart, providing enrichment toys, and keeping routines consistent. Our veterinarians also recommend exercise, crate training, and — if needed — calming supplements or medications. Schedule an appointment if your dog struggles when left alone.
Anxiety signs include hiding, pacing, destructive behavior, or panting. At PetMed in Dubuque, we may recommend veterinarian approved medication(s). Schedule a consultation so we can create a personalized anxiety care plan
Heartworm disease, spread by mosquitoes, is common in Dubuque Iowa and can be fatal. Prevention is safe, affordable, and far easier than treatment. Our veterinary clinic recommends year-round prevention for all dogs.
General FAQs
Pets hide pain well. Watch for: limping, stiffness, appetite loss, reluctance to jump/play, hiding, behavior changes, or over-grooming one area. Call us if you notice these signs.
You should feel ribs without pressing hard and see a waistline from above. Unsure? Schedule a visit — we’ll check your pet’s body condition and recommend nutrition options, including prescription diets like Hill’s Metabolic if needed. Check out the Hill's weight scale ➝
Diet varies by species, but proper nutrition is the most important factor in keeping exotic pets healthy. For example:
- Rabbits & Guinea Pigs: Unlimited timothy long-stemmed hay, species-appropriate pellets, and fresh greens (plus daily Vitamin C for guinea pigs).
- Ferrets: High-protein, meat-based diets.
- Reptiles: Balanced diets tailored to species — including proper calcium and vitamin supplementation.
Our veterinarians will provide a customized diet plan for your pet at their visit.
Occasional hairballs are normal in cats (especially long-haired). Dogs should not vomit hairballs. Frequent vomiting or difficulty should be checked by a vet. Grooming and prescription diets can help reduce hairballs.
Occasional sneezing or coughing may be harmless. But if it’s persistent, comes with nasal discharge, causes difficulty breathing, or happens in fits, call us. It may indicate allergies, infection, or more serious problems.
If you find an injured wild animal in Dubuque or surrounding areas:
- Contact the Dubuque County Conservation Board / DNR: (563) 556-6745
- Or reach the Iowa DNR Wildlife Rehabilitation Directory to find a licensed rehabilitator: Iowa DNR Wildlife Rehabbers List or call (515) 725-8200
Important:
- Do not attempt to handle or care for wildlife yourself — it can be dangerous for both you and the animal.
Baby wild animals are rarely abandoned. Mothers often leave their young alone for hours while foraging. If the babies appear healthy, the best thing you can do is leave them alone so the mother can return.
- If you believe the animal is truly orphaned or injured, call the DNR for guidance before intervening.
At PetMed of Key West, we are not licensed wildlife rehabilitators and cannot accept wild animals, but we’ll gladly help connect you with the right resources.
We welcome new clients! For your first appointment (or if it’s been more than 2 years since your last visit), a non-refundable scheduling fee equal to the exam cost is required when booking. This fee is applied to your visit if you keep the appointment and is refundable only with at least 2 business days’ notice of cancellation. Schedule Online ➝
We are always accepting new patients! Typically, we can schedule a new patient within 3 days. During busier times, it may be up to a week. Surgery appointments usually book out about 2 weeks, though we keep space for urgent cases. Schedule Online ➝
Most puppies and kittens should switch to adult food around 12 months of age. Larger breed dogs may need puppy diets until 15–18 months. During your visit at PetMed of Key West in Dubuque, we’ll recommend the right nutrition plan for your pet’s breed, size, and lifestyle.
- Cats: A safe, locked carrier
- Dogs: A leash, with your dog under good control
- Any current medications your pet is taking
- Any previous medical records from previous veterinary care
- Fecal sample (if requested for your appointment)
This ensures your visit is safe and efficient for you, your pet, and our staff.
At PetMed of Key West, your pet will be cared for by one of our three dedicated veterinarians:
- Dr. Mackenzie Hellert (Owner): Our primary surgeon and a general care veterinarian. Dr. Hellert performs advanced soft-tissue surgeries, abdominal ultrasounds, and sees many exotic pets including reptiles, amphibians, and even kangaroos. (She does not see birds, except chickens and ducks, or primates.)
- Dr. Naomi Tigges: A primary care veterinarian who treats dogs, cats, and small furry pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and hamsters. She also performs dental surgeries and other routine procedures.
- Dr. Kim Bergfeld: The former owner of PetMed of Key West, Dr. Bergfeld continues to provide compassionate primary care for dogs and cats.
Together, our team ensures that dogs, cats, and many exotic pets receive the best possible care right here in Dubuque.
If it’s mild and your pet acts normal, monitor for 24-48 hours and keep them hydrated. A bland diet can help such as BOILED chicken or hamburger (no fat) and rice. If it’s severe, bloody, lasts more than 48 hours, or your pet seems tired or unwell, call us right away.
Yes — but only when it’s a safe, veterinary-approved product. Not all CBD is created equal. Many over-the-counter products lack proper testing, may contain inaccurate doses, or even include THC, which is toxic to pets.
At PetMed of Key West, we recommend ElleVet CBD, a research-backed product specifically formulated for pets. It’s carefully tested for purity and dosing, and we use it to help with issues like anxiety, inflammation, and arthritis.
Please let us know before your appointment — we’re here to help! At PetMed of Key West, we understand that vet visits can be stressful for some pets, and we have several ways to make the experience easier:
- Pheromone sprays like Feliway (for cats) and ThunderEase (for dogs) can help reduce fear and anxiety
- For dogs, we can meet you outside — sometimes a simple exam in the yard is much more comfortable
- Home visits are available for routine care within 15 miles of the clinic (typically on Mondays), which allows your pet to stay in a familiar environment
- If your pet has a favorite staff member, we can try to schedule with someone they know and trust
- We can prescribe pre-visit medications to help your pet feel calm and safe before even walking through the door
Our goal is to make every visit as stress-free as possible — for both you and your pet. Don’t hesitate to reach out so we can create a personalized plan.
Sometimes, yes. For everyone’s safety — including your dog’s — we may ask that your dog wear a muzzle during their visit. We affectionately call them “party hats.”
A muzzle is never used as punishment. Instead, it’s a tool that helps keep your dog, you, and our staff safe during exams or treatments when a pet might be scared or in pain. Many dogs relax quickly once the muzzle is on, and most tolerate it very well.
If your dog has needed a muzzle before, let us know when scheduling — we’ll have one ready in the right size.
You’re not alone — many pets are sensitive to loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks, but there’s a lot we can do to help. If your pet struggles during these events, please let us know ahead of time so we can create a personalized plan. Options include:
- Pheromone products like ThunderEase or Feliway (for cats), which can help reduce anxiety naturally
- ElleVet CBD, a research-backed calming option that may help ease your pet’s stress
- Pre-event medications tailored to your pet’s size, health, and needs — these can take the edge off during storms or fireworks
- Environmental tips, like creating a safe, quiet space or using white noise and calming music
- Desensitization strategies (over time) to help your pet become less reactive
Our goal is to keep your pet safe, calm, and comfortable — and to give you peace of mind. The earlier you reach out before a stressful event, the more options we have!
PetMed has always been a locally owned veterinary clinic.
- 1999 – Dr. Haupert, a veterinarian and long-time member of the Dubuque community, founded PetMed Animal Health Center.
- 2021 – Dr. Mackenzie Hellert and her husband, Brett, purchased PetMed Animal Health Center, continuing its tradition of local, family-focused care.
- 2024 – They purchased another well-loved local practice, Key West Animal Clinic, and merged the two into what is now PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic.
Today, Brett and Dr. Hellert own and operate PetMed of Key West as a local, family-owned veterinary practice — not a corporate chain and not affiliated with 1-800-PetMeds. Our commitment has always been (and continues to be) to the pets and families of the Dubuque community.
In general, you should be able to feel but not see your pet’s ribs. Pets should have a waistline when viewed from above. If you’re unsure, our Dubuque veterinarians can provide a body condition score and nutrition counseling to keep your pet at a healthy weight.
A “fear-free” veterinary visit uses gentle handling, pheromone sprays, and treats to reduce stress for pets. At PetMed of Key West in Dubuque, Iowa, we are committed to making every vet visit as comfortable and positive as possible for your pet.
Appointments & Services FAQs
Yes. Microchipping provides permanent ID that can’t fall off like a collar or tag. Shelters and vets can scan the chip to contact you if your pet is lost. Pets with microchips are far more likely to make it back home. We can place a chip at any appointment. Schedule Online ➝
Dental disease can cause pain, infection, and even damage the heart, liver, or kidneys. At PetMed, dental cleanings are treated like a surgical procedure — with full anesthesia monitoring, IV fluids, pain control, and dental x-rays every time. This ensures your pet’s comfort and long-term health. See our dental page ➝
Yes! At PetMed of Key West, Dr. Tigges sees rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and other small furry pets. Dr. Hellert sees many reptiles, including lizards, snakes, and amphibians — and even some unusual species like kangaroos.
We do not see birds (with the exception of chickens and ducks), primates, or wildlife. If you’re unsure whether we can care for your pet, give us a call and we’ll be happy to let you know.
Yes — nail trims for rabbits and guinea pigs are available with our veterinary team. This can be done at a regular appointment or a technician appointment. Schedule Online ➝
No — we do not offer boarding or grooming. However, we’re happy to recommend trusted local facilities.
Yes. We carry Hill’s Science Diet and Purina Veterinary Diets. These are prescription-only foods designed to support medical conditions such as kidney disease, weight management, and urinary health. A valid prescription is required, just like with medications. Visit our online store ➝
You can request refills through our online portal, by phone, or by email. Please allow 24–48 hours for approval. Some medications require periodic exams or bloodwork for refills. Give us a call ➝
Yes! We offer a convenient online store for home delivery and special orders. If you prefer an outside store (like Chewy or 1-800-PetMeds), we will provide a written prescription — but we do not call prescriptions into outside pharmacies. Clients are responsible for submitting the written prescription. Visit our online store ➝
Signs of dental disease include bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, bleeding gums, or reluctance to chew food. At PetMed of Key West in Dubuque, we perform full dental cleanings with x-rays. If specialized surgical care is required, we can refer to a veterinary dental specialist.
Yes — Dr. Hellert provides in-home visits within 15 miles of the clinic, typically on Mondays. These must be scheduled in advance and require a $150 nonrefundable scheduling fee. Note that advanced testing (like X-rays or injections) must be done in-clinic, and home visits are not available for emergencies or after 4 p.m. Learn more on our in-home care page ➝
Yes — we offer drop-off appointments. A technician will review questions and have you sign a drop-off form and estimate. Because we fit drop-off pets in between scheduled appointments, they may be with us for several hours. Pets must be picked up the same day. Schedule Online ➝
Yes. At PetMed of Key West, we believe in a multimodal approach to pain management. In addition to traditional prescription pain medications, we offer:
- Companion Cold Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation and speed healing after surgery or injury Learn more about cold laser therapy ➝
- ElleVet CBD for a natural, research-backed option to help with anxiety and inflammation Learn more about CBD for pets ➝
- Librela injections (a monoclonal antibody) to provide long-lasting relief from arthritis pain in dogs
These options allow us to tailor pain control to your pet’s needs and improve their comfort and quality of life.
Yes. We carry trusted veterinary-grade supplements including Welactin (fish oil), Dasuquin Advanced (joint support), ElleVet CBD (for anxiety and inflammation), and dental health products.
We offer in-home visits within a 15-mile radius of the clinic, typically on Mondays with Dr. Hellert. These must be scheduled in advance and require a $150 nonrefundable scheduling fee. Note that advanced testing such as X-rays or injectable treatments must be done in-clinic. Call Us ➝ or Email Us ➝
Yes. We provide in-home euthanasia for both current and non-current patients, offering a peaceful and comfortable option for families. This service must be scheduled in advance (typically on Mondays or Tuesdays) and is not available as an emergency. Call Us ➝ or Email Us ➝ or Learn more on our in-home care page ➝
You bet! At PetMed of Key West, we offer nail trims:
- As an add-on to a regular veterinary appointment
- Or as a standalone appointment with one of our technicians
- For safety, we provide nail trims only to current patients, and all pets must be up to date on their Rabies vaccine.
- We also offer nail dremeling, which smooths and rounds the nails for a gentler finish.
We can help! At PetMed of Key West, we offer full shave downs under sedation for cats and dogs when matting poses a medical concern or when grooming isn’t possible elsewhere.
This is considered a medical shave, since it’s performed for health reasons rather than cosmetic grooming. Please note:
- We are not professional groomers
- We do not bathe pets as part of this service
- Your pet will be safely sedated and closely monitored throughout the procedure
Our goal is to remove mats and make your pet more comfortable and healthy. If you think your pet may need a medical shave, call us to discuss the best plan.
A microchip is permanent identification that dramatically improves the chance of a lost pet being reunited with their family. At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic in Dubuque, Iowa, we place and register microchips the same day, and your pet remains registered for life. The microchips we use are HomeAgain, a very well-known and secure brand.
Yes — our veterinarians make house calls in Dubuque and surrounding areas within 15 miles of the clinic. If you are farther than 15 miles we will make exceptions depending on time availability. Services include wellness care, medication refills, and in-home euthanasia. Advanced diagnostics and surgery still need to be done in-clinic.
Pet Health & Procedures FAQs
Yearly for most adults; more often for seniors or pets on long-term meds. We can run many tests in-house for same-day answers, and use outside labs for specialized tests (typically 3 business days). Early testing means earlier, more effective treatment.
At PetMed of Key West, our surgical estimates are all-inclusive for your pet’s safety and comfort. Every spay/neuter includes:
- Pre-surgical exam
- Preanesthetic bloodwork
- Customized anesthesia plan
- IV catheter and fluids during surgery
- Continuous monitoring (ECG, blood pressure, oxygen, temperature, heart and respiratory rate)
- Pain management before, during, and after surgery
- Antibiotics if indicated
- A protective e-collar or donut if needed
- Careful recovery monitoring and personalized discharge instructions. We believe your pet deserves more than the “bare minimum,” which is why our estimates may look different than low-cost clinics.
- Drop-off is between 8:00–8:20 a.m. A technician will review your pet’s care, answer your questions, and have you sign the consent form and estimate. Most pets go home after 2 p.m. the same day.
- Dogs & Cats: No food after 10 p.m. the night before. Offer only a small amount of water the morning of surgery.
- Pocket Pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, etc.): Do NOT fast.
- We do not provide 24-hour staffed care. If your pet requires overnight monitoring, we will recommend transfer to a 24-hour ER in Madison, WI, or Cedar Rapids, IA.
It’s normal for pets to be a little sleepy for 12–24 hours. Keep your pet quiet, limit activity, and prevent licking/chewing at the incision (we’ll provide an e-collar if needed). Check the incision daily for redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice anything concerning, call us right away. You’ll receive detailed written instructions at pickup.
As a Dubuque pet owner, it’s important to know that dogs and cats often hide discomfort. Signs of pain can include limping, reluctance to climb stairs, decreased appetite, hiding, vocalizing, or licking one area excessively. If you notice these changes, call PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic in Dubuque, Iowa for a pain assessment. Early treatment keeps pets more comfortable and healthier.
Annual exams with our veterinarians help detect hidden issues like kidney disease, thyroid disease, or dental problems before they become advanced. Cats hide illness well, so a yearly check-up with veterinary team ensures your cat stays healthy longer.
Most pets are spayed or neutered around 6 months of age. Timing may vary depending on breed and health. At PetMed of Key West in Dubuque, we’ll discuss the best age and benefits of surgery during your puppy or kitten visits.
Absolutely. Pets feel pain just like people do. Managing pain speeds recovery and keeps your pet comfortable. All of our surgical patients go home with appropriate pain medication, and we’ll explain exactly how and when to give it.
Yes! At PetMed of Key West, we offer several surgical options for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CCL/ACL) injuries:
- Lateral Suture Technique – Recommended for smaller dogs (generally under 20 lbs).
- TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) – Performed in our clinic by board-certified surgeon Dr. Sandman.
- TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) – Performed in our clinic by board-certified surgeon Dr. Adrian.
Because every dog and injury is different, our veterinarians will evaluate your pet and recommend the best surgical option for their size, activity level, and health. All follow-up care is provided right here at PetMed of Key West.
Yes. We partner with two board-certified veterinary surgeons, Dr. Sandman and Dr. Adrian, who come directly to our clinic to perform advanced orthopedic and specialty surgeries. This means your pet can stay local without needing to travel to a specialty hospital. All follow-up care is done here with our team.
Yes. Dr. Hellert performs full abdominal ultrasounds Tuesday–Thursday, usually as drop-off appointments (sometimes with light sedation). We also work with a traveling echocardiographer through SVS to perform in-house echocardiograms of your pet’s heart. These need to be scheduled in advance (usually 2–4 weeks out).
Excessive itching in dogs may be caused by fleas, mites, food allergies, environmental allergies, or infections. Because these skin conditions are common in Iowa pets, an exam is the best way to identify the cause. Our Dubuque veterinarians can perform skin cytology and allergy testing to provide relief for your dog.
Yes. Senior dogs and cats in Dubuque benefit from twice-yearly exams, bloodwork, arthritis monitoring, and pain management. Our veterinarians offer medications, supplements, and cold laser therapy to improve mobility and quality of life for older pets.
After Hours & Emergencies FAQs
Call us if your pet is struggling to breathe, can’t walk, has seizures, uncontrolled bleeding, repeated vomiting or repeated gagging without anything coming out, refuses food/water for 24 hours in cats or not eating for 48 hours in dogs, or “just isn’t acting right.” When in doubt, call — it’s always better to be safe.
Call us immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms. If it’s after hours, call:
- Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435
Bring the package or substance with you if possible. Quick action saves lives.
Signs include difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, uncontrolled bleeding, bloated abdomen, or toxin ingestion. If you’re in Dubuque and need an emergency veterinarian, call PetMed immediately — we have a veterinarian on call 24/7 for our current patients. For continuous monitoring or advanced surgery overnight, we may refer you to nearby 24-hour ER hospitals in Cedar Rapids, Madison, or Middleton.
Yes. A veterinarian is on call 24/7 for current patients (seen within 14 months). Call our clinic number, and you’ll be connected through our call center.
- The doctor will call from a blocked number, so please make sure your phone will accept the call.
- If you are not a current client, or if your case requires intensive monitoring, we will direct you to a 24-hour emergency hospital in Madison, WI, or Cedar Rapids, IA.
While we provide excellent surgical and post-surgical care during the day, PetMed of Key West is not a 24-hour staffed hospital. If your pet requires continuous monitoring or overnight care, we will recommend transferring to a trusted 24-hour emergency facility:
- VCA-VES Veterinary Emergency Service (Middleton, WI)
- Madison Veterinary Specialists (MVS, Madison, WI)
- UW-Madison Veterinary Teaching Hospital
- BluePearl Pet Hospital (Cedar Rapids, IA)
Our team will help you determine if transfer is appropriate and can provide medical records to the ER facility. It is the owner’s responsibility to transport the pet to the emergency hospital if overnight care is needed.
An emergency vet is staffed 24/7 with the ability to provide surgery, oxygen therapy, and overnight monitoring. An urgent care veterinary clinic handles same-day but is not staffed overnight and usually only handles non-life threatening emergencies. At PetMed of Key West in Dubuque, we provide urgent and emergency care during business hours, and our doctors are on call after-hours for established patients.
Payment FAQs
Payment is due in full at the time of service. We accept cash, good checks, all major credit cards, CareCredit, and All Pet Card. Learn more on our payment page ➝
We don’t offer in-house payment plans, but clients may use CareCredit or All Pet Card for up to 6 months of financing (must be pre-approved). We’re happy to provide medical records and estimates for pet insurance claims but do not bill insurance directly. Learn more on our payment page ➝
Pet insurance can save you thousands on emergency or long-term care. Most companies allow you to visit any licensed Dubuque veterinarian. We recommend comparing plans to find one that fits your pet’s needs. We aren’t insurance brokers so we don’t recommend any single company. You can find more information here:.
Yes — we accept CareCredit and All Pet Card (up to 6 months financing). We do not accept Scratchpay at this time. Learn more on our payment page ➝
Yes — for advanced or non-routine surgeries, a deposit equal to the lower end of the estimate is required before surgery. Routine procedures like spays, neuters, and dentals do not require a deposit.