My dog ate [food] — is it dangerous?
Certain foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol are toxic to dogs. If your dog eats something questionable, contact your veterinarian right away. When in doubt, it’s always safest to check.
Signs my pet is in pain?
Pets often hide discomfort. Common signs include decreased appetite, limping, hiding, vocalizing, or changes in behavior. If your pet seems “off,” they may be in pain and should be evaluated.
When should I take my pet to the emergency vet vs. regular vet?
Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, seizures, severe vomiting or diarrhea, toxin ingestion, or inability to stand. For less urgent concerns, your regular veterinarian is the best place to start.
How do I know if my cat is sick?
Cats often show subtle signs of illness, including hiding, decreased appetite, vomiting, or changes in litter box habits. If your cat isn’t acting like themselves, it’s best to have them checked.
How often does my dog need a vet visit?
Most dogs should have a wellness exam once a year, while puppies, seniors, and pets with medical conditions may need more frequent visits.
What vaccines does my dog need each year?
Core vaccines for dogs typically include rabies and distemper/parvo. Additional vaccines may be recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors.
Does my indoor cat need vaccines?
Yes. Even indoor cats should receive core vaccines like rabies and distemper, as they can still be exposed through unexpected situations.
How do I know if my pet is at a healthy weight?
You should be able to feel your pet’s ribs without excess fat and see a defined waist. Your veterinarian can help assess body condition and recommend diet changes if needed.
What’s the best food for my dog or cat?
The best diet depends on your pet’s age, breed, and health needs. Your veterinarian can recommend a balanced, high-quality diet tailored to your pet.
When should I get my puppy or kitten spayed or neutered?
Most pets are spayed or neutered around 5–6 months of age, though timing may vary depending on breed and health.
Does my pet need flea and tick prevention year-round?
Yes. Fleas and ticks can be present year-round in many areas and can transmit serious diseases, making consistent prevention important.
What is heartworm and how do I prevent it?
Heartworm is a serious disease spread by mosquitoes. Monthly prevention is the safest and most effective way to protect your pet.
Why is my dog not eating?
A loss of appetite in dogs can be caused by stress, diet changes, or underlying illness. If your dog skips a meal but is otherwise acting normal, it may not be urgent. However, if they haven’t eaten for more than 24 hours or show symptoms like vomiting or lethargy, a veterinary exam is recommended.
What is a wellness exam vs. a sick visit?
A wellness exam focuses on prevention and early detection, while a sick visit addresses specific symptoms or concerns your pet is experiencing.
Why is my cat throwing up?
Occasional vomiting can be normal in cats, especially with hairballs. Frequent or persistent vomiting may indicate digestive issues, food sensitivities, or illness. If your cat is vomiting regularly or seems unwell, it’s best to have them evaluated.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
We recommend scheduling an appointment to ensure timely care. If your pet is experiencing an urgent issue, please call ahead so we can guide you.
My dog is shaking — is this serious?
Shaking can be caused by anxiety, cold, pain, or illness. While some causes are harmless, shaking along with vomiting, weakness, or unusual behavior may indicate a more serious issue and should be evaluated.
Why does my dog have diarrhea?
Diarrhea is often caused by diet changes, stress, parasites, or infection. Mild cases may resolve quickly, but if it lasts more than 24–48 hours, contains blood, or is paired with other symptoms, veterinary care is recommended.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. We welcome new dogs and cats. You can request an appointment online at rvahpet.com/appointments or call us at (713) 527-0489.
What animals do you see?
We care for dogs and cats only. We don’t treat exotic pets, birds, reptiles, or small mammals.
Do you take same-day sick visits?
Yes. If your pet is vomiting, has diarrhea, isn’t eating, is limping, or just doesn’t seem right, call us as early in the day as possible and we’ll do our best to see them that day.
What should I do if my pet has an emergency after hours?
We’re open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM. If you call after hours, our phone line will connect you directly to VEG, our partner 24/7 emergency hospital, so you can get help and guidance right away.
What does AAHA accreditation mean?
The American Animal Hospital Association evaluates veterinary hospitals on a comprehensive set of standards covering surgery, anesthesia, dentistry, pain management, and more. Only about 15% of animal hospitals in the U.S. are accredited, and we’re proud to be one of them.
Can I drop my pet off for the day?
Yes. Convenient drop-off appointments are available if your schedule makes it hard to wait with your pet. Drop them off in the morning and pick them up later in the day.
Do you perform surgery?
Yes. Our veterinarians perform spays, neuters, and general and soft tissue surgery in-house. Orthopedic surgery is performed on-site by a board-certified mobile surgeon, so your pet can stay in a familiar place with the team they know.
What diagnostic services do you offer?
We offer digital X-rays, ultrasound, and in-house blood work and lab testing, so we can often get answers quickly without sending your pet elsewhere.
Do you offer pet dental care?
Yes. We provide dental exams, cleanings, and treatment for gum disease. Dental disease is one of the most common problems we see in dogs and cats, and it often has no obvious signs.
Do you offer grooming?
Yes. We offer full-service dog grooming, baths and blow-dries, nail trims, ear cleaning, anal gland expression, and flea and tick treatments, plus nail trims and ear cleaning for cats. Because grooming happens inside our hospital, our veterinarians can check any skin, ear, or coat concerns our groomers notice.
Is there parking?
Yes. We have a free on-site parking lot at 2348 Rice Blvd in the heart of Rice Village.
Do you have Spanish-speaking staff?
Yes. Bilingual Spanish-English staff are available.
What neighborhoods do you serve?
We’re located in Rice Village and care for pets from West University Place, Southside Place, Southampton, River Oaks, the Medical Center, the Museum District, and the surrounding Houston area.
How long has Rice Village Animal Hospital been open?
We’ve been caring for pets in Rice Village since 1976.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, CareCredit, and Cherry.
Do you accept pet insurance?
Yes, we accept pet insurance. Give us a call at (713) 527-0489 if you have questions about your plan.