Because your pet deserves the best - FAQs

Yes! We are happy to welcome new cats, dogs, and pocket pets to our clinic. To ensure we can dedicate the necessary time to every animal, we require a new client deposit when booking. This deposit is fully refundable if you cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment, and it will be applied directly toward your pet’s visit.

We primarily care for dogs and cats, but we also see pocket pets! If you are looking for a vet in Toledo for your rabbit, gerbil, hamster, or rat, our team is trained to provide the specialized care these small companions require.

In the city of Toledo, dogs are required to be on a leash no longer
than 8 feet when on public property, including parks, sidewalks, and
streets. This law is in place to protect your pet, other animals, and
people. Be a good neighbor and always keep your dog leashed unless
you're in a designated off-leash area.

Toledo has some wonderful spots for you and your dog to enjoy! Here
are a few of our favorites:

• The Metroparks: Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, Wildwood Preserve
  Metropark, Side Cut Metropark.
• Paid Parks: Glass City Dog Park in Toledo or Blueberry Fields in Sylvania

Remember to check for ticks and to properly dispose of your pets
waste.

Yes, this is a very serious concern. Blue-green algae, or
cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that are harmful and often fatal to
pets if ingested. These blooms can look like pea soup or bright green
paint on the water's surface. Never let your pet drink from or swim
in water that looks suspicious. If your pet does come into contact
with potentially contaminated water, rinse them immediately with
fresh water and watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, weakness,
or seizures. Contact us or an emergency vet immediately if you
suspect exposure.

We recommend a full wellness exam at least twice a year for adult pets and more frequently for seniors (over 7 years old). Pets age much faster than we do, and these regular visits are crucial for catching potential health issues early when they are most treatable.

While the idea of a 'natural' diet is appealing, we at Graber's
cannot recommend raw diets due to the significant risks. They can
carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can sicken
both your pet and your family. They are also often nutritionally
unbalanced. If you wish to use a raw diet for your pet we can give
you guidance to build a nutritious meal.

First, approach with caution as the animal may be scared and
unpredictable. If you can safely secure them, check for a tag with a
phone number. If there's no tag, your best bet is to bring them to a
local shelter or a veterinary clinic like ours to have them scanned
for a microchip. You can also post a photo on local social media
lost-and-found pages.

Most boarding facilities, groomers, and daycares in the Toledo area
require the DHPP (Distemper/Parvo) and Rabies vaccines. They will
almost certainly also require the Bordetella (Kennel Cough) vaccine,
and some may require the Canine Influenza vaccine. It's best to check
with the specific facility and plan ahead, as some vaccines need time
to become fully effective. They will most likely want a parasite free
fecal sample within the last year on record. Our in-house lab can get you results from your fecal sample typically the same day.

This is a critical question, especially since a case of rabies was
confirmed right here in Lucas County in 2025. The primary risk is from wildflife getting into your home or yard, a scenario that can happen to anyone. Because rabies is a fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans, Ohio law requires all cats (and dogs) to be vaccinated against it, regardless of whether they go outside. The FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia) vaccine is also essential to protect against highly contagious viruses.

Consistent, year-round prevention is key. Our Ohio climate means
fleas and ticks can survive even through milder winters. We recommend
a high-quality, veterinary-approved preventive product. During your
wellness exam, we can help you choose the best option whether it's
a topical treatment, an oral chew, or injectable based on your
pet's lifestyle and your family's preferences.

We recommend scheduling an initial exam when your new pet is between 6 and 8 weeks old. This first visit is important for starting their vaccine series, checking for internal parasites, and discussing nutrition and behavior during their most critical stage of growth. Learn more at our Puppy and Kitten Care page.

Ohio law requires all dogs over 3 months old to wear a valid license tag at all times. Licenses go on sale December 1 and must be renewed by January 31 each year or purchased immediately if you adopt a new dog or move into Ohio. You can purchase tags at LC4 (Lucas County Canine & Control) on Monroe St., or Toledo Lucas County Library branches.

Collars and tags can fall off or break. A microchip is a permanent ID safely implanted under the skin. Local shelters and clinics scan lost pets for chips immediately.

Yes. Blacklegged (Deer) ticks are widespread in local spots like Oak Openings, Secor, and Wildwood Metroparks. Because Toledo’s winter temperatures frequently thaw above 45°F, ticks stay active periodically all year long. We recommend continuous 12-month flea and tick prevention to protect against Lyme disease.

For severe after-hours emergencies (like trauma, bloat, or poisoning), seek immediate care at an overnight facility like MedVet Toledo located at Douglas just off Central Ave. Always call ahead so their team can prepare, and they will transfer medical records back to us for follow-up care.