To address your concerns directly, generally, no, PET scans don’t hurt. At PETS.EDU.VN, we understand that medical procedures can be nerve-wracking, especially when they involve our beloved pets. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a clear understanding of PET scans, ensuring you are well-informed about the process, its benefits, and how to prepare your furry friend, enhancing their comfort and minimizing any anxiety related to positron emission tomography and diagnostic imaging.
Table of Contents
- What is a PET Scan and Why is it Needed for Pets?
- Understanding the PET Scan Procedure for Animals
- Is a PET Scan Painful for Pets? Addressing the Main Concern
- How to Prepare Your Pet for a PET Scan
- What to Expect During the PET Scan: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Post-PET Scan Care: Ensuring Your Pet’s Comfort and Recovery
- Potential Risks and Side Effects of PET Scans in Pets
- Benefits of PET Scans in Diagnosing Pet Health Issues
- PET Scan Costs: What You Need to Know
- Frequently Asked Questions About PET Scans for Pets
1. What is a PET Scan and Why is it Needed for Pets?
A PET scan, or Positron Emission Tomography scan, is an advanced imaging technique used in veterinary medicine to visualize the metabolic activity within a pet’s body. It differs significantly from X-rays or CT scans, which primarily show anatomical structures. PET scans reveal how tissues and organs are functioning at a cellular level. This makes it invaluable for early detection and diagnosis of various diseases, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and understanding complex medical conditions in animals, offering insights beyond traditional methods like diagnostic imaging and other screening exams.
- Early Disease Detection: PET scans can detect diseases like cancer much earlier than other imaging techniques by identifying abnormal metabolic activity before structural changes occur.
- Treatment Monitoring: They help veterinarians assess how well a treatment is working by showing changes in the metabolic activity of tumors or other affected tissues.
- Diagnosis of Complex Conditions: PET scans are useful in diagnosing neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and other complex conditions by visualizing specific metabolic processes.
1.1. The Science Behind PET Scans
PET scans use radioactive tracers, also known as radiopharmaceuticals, which are injected into the pet’s body. These tracers are designed to accumulate in areas with high metabolic activity, such as tumors or inflamed tissues. The PET scanner detects the radioactive emissions from the tracer, creating detailed 3D images that highlight areas of concern. According to a study by the Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound journal, the accuracy of PET scans in detecting cancerous tumors in dogs is significantly higher compared to traditional X-rays.
1.2. Common Uses of PET Scans in Veterinary Medicine
PET scans are used to diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions in pets. Here are some common applications:
- Oncology: Detecting, staging, and monitoring the treatment of cancer.
- Neurology: Diagnosing and assessing neurological disorders like seizures and cognitive dysfunction.
- Cardiology: Evaluating heart function and detecting cardiac diseases.
- Inflammatory Diseases: Identifying areas of inflammation in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
1.3. Why PET Scans are Becoming More Common
PET scans are becoming increasingly common in veterinary medicine due to their ability to provide unique and valuable information that other imaging techniques cannot offer. They help veterinarians make more informed decisions, leading to better outcomes for pets. At PETS.EDU.VN, we believe that providing access to advanced diagnostic tools like PET scans is essential for ensuring the highest quality of care for your furry family members.
2. Understanding the PET Scan Procedure for Animals
The PET scan procedure for animals involves several steps, each designed to ensure the safety and accuracy of the diagnostic process. Understanding these steps can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you and your pet for the scan.
- Preparation: Before the scan, your pet may need to fast for a certain period, usually a few hours, to ensure accurate results.
- Tracer Injection: A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into your pet’s bloodstream. This tracer is designed to highlight areas of metabolic activity.
- Waiting Period: There is a waiting period of about 30-60 minutes after the injection to allow the tracer to distribute throughout your pet’s body.
- Scanning: Your pet will lie on a scanning bed that slides into the PET scanner. The scanner detects the radioactive emissions from the tracer, creating detailed images.
- Image Interpretation: A specialized veterinary radiologist interprets the images to identify any abnormalities and provide a diagnosis.
2.1. The Role of Radiotracers in PET Scans
Radiotracers are essential to the PET scan process. These substances emit positrons, which are detected by the scanner. The most common radiotracer used in PET scans is fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a glucose analog. Because cancer cells typically consume more glucose than normal cells, FDG tends to accumulate in cancerous tissues, making them visible on the scan.
2.2. The PET Scanning Process: A Detailed Look
- Arrival and Preparation: When you arrive for the PET scan, the veterinary team will review your pet’s medical history and explain the procedure. Any questions you have can be answered at this time.
- Tracer Administration: The radiotracer is administered intravenously. The dose is carefully calculated based on your pet’s weight and the specific diagnostic purpose.
- Waiting Period: After the tracer is injected, your pet will need to rest quietly for about an hour. This allows the tracer to distribute evenly throughout the body.
- Positioning and Scanning: Your pet will be carefully positioned on the scanning bed. The bed will then slide into the PET scanner. It is important that your pet remains as still as possible during the scan, which typically lasts between 20 and 40 minutes.
- Image Acquisition: The PET scanner detects the positrons emitted by the radiotracer, creating a 3D image of your pet’s internal metabolic activity.
- Image Processing and Interpretation: The images are processed by a computer and reviewed by a veterinary radiologist, who will look for any abnormalities and provide a detailed report.
2.3. Ensuring Your Pet’s Comfort During the Procedure
Veterinary hospitals take several measures to ensure your pet’s comfort during the PET scan. Sedation or anesthesia may be used to keep your pet still and relaxed throughout the procedure. The veterinary team will closely monitor your pet’s vital signs to ensure their safety. At PETS.EDU.VN, we emphasize the importance of a stress-free environment for your pet.
3. Is a PET Scan Painful for Pets? Addressing the Main Concern
One of the primary concerns pet owners have about PET scans is whether the procedure is painful for their animals. The short answer is that PET scans themselves are not painful. However, certain aspects of the process may cause some discomfort or anxiety, which can be managed with appropriate care and preparation.
- Injection: The injection of the radiotracer may cause a brief sting, similar to a routine vaccination.
- Positioning: Remaining still for an extended period can be uncomfortable, especially for pets with arthritis or other mobility issues.
- Anxiety: Some pets may experience anxiety due to the unfamiliar environment and the need to be confined in the scanner.
3.1. Understanding the Role of Sedation and Anesthesia
To minimize discomfort and anxiety, sedation or anesthesia is often used during PET scans. Sedation helps relax your pet, making it easier for them to remain still during the scan. Anesthesia ensures that your pet is completely still and unaware of the procedure. The choice between sedation and anesthesia depends on several factors, including your pet’s temperament, health status, and the specific requirements of the scan. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), using sedation or anesthesia is a common practice to ensure the safety and accuracy of PET scans in pets.
3.2. Managing Discomfort During and After the Scan
- Pre-Scan Consultation: Discuss any concerns you have about pain or discomfort with your veterinarian. They can provide reassurance and explain the steps they will take to minimize discomfort.
- Pain Management: If your pet has pre-existing pain conditions, ensure they receive appropriate pain management before the scan.
- Comfortable Positioning: The veterinary team will ensure that your pet is positioned as comfortably as possible on the scanning bed.
- Post-Scan Monitoring: After the scan, your pet will be monitored for any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions. Pain relief medication can be administered if needed.
3.3. PET Scans vs. Other Diagnostic Procedures
Compared to other diagnostic procedures like surgery or biopsies, PET scans are generally less invasive and cause less discomfort. While surgery and biopsies involve physical incisions and tissue removal, PET scans are non-invasive and only require a simple injection. At PETS.EDU.VN, we prioritize procedures that minimize pain and stress for your pets, ensuring they receive the best possible care with compassion and understanding.
4. How to Prepare Your Pet for a PET Scan
Proper preparation is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and success of a PET scan. It also helps minimize stress and anxiety for your pet. Here are some essential steps to follow:
- Fasting: Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions on fasting. Typically, pets need to fast for 4-6 hours before the scan to ensure accurate results.
- Hydration: Ensure your pet is well-hydrated before the scan, unless otherwise instructed by your veterinarian.
- Medication: Discuss any medications your pet is taking with your veterinarian. Some medications may need to be temporarily discontinued before the scan.
- Comfort: Bring a favorite blanket or toy to help your pet feel more comfortable in the unfamiliar environment.
- Information: Provide your veterinarian with a complete medical history of your pet, including any previous illnesses, surgeries, and allergies.
4.1. Dietary Restrictions Before a PET Scan
Fasting is an important part of preparing your pet for a PET scan. The reason for this is that the radiotracer used in PET scans, FDG, is a glucose analog. If your pet has recently eaten, their blood sugar levels will be elevated, which can interfere with the tracer’s ability to accumulate in areas of interest. According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, proper fasting can significantly improve the accuracy of PET scan results.
4.2. What to Tell Your Veterinarian Before the Scan
- Medical History: Provide a complete medical history of your pet, including any previous illnesses, surgeries, and allergies.
- Medications: Inform your veterinarian about all medications your pet is currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: Alert your veterinarian to any pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney problems.
- Behavioral Issues: Inform your veterinarian if your pet has any behavioral issues, such as anxiety, aggression, or sensitivity to handling.
- Pregnancy or Lactation: If your pet is pregnant or lactating, inform your veterinarian immediately.
4.3. Making the Experience Less Stressful for Your Pet
- Familiar Items: Bring a favorite blanket or toy to help your pet feel more comfortable.
- Calm Demeanor: Remain calm and reassuring. Your pet can sense your anxiety, so it is important to project a sense of calm.
- Gentle Handling: Handle your pet gently and speak to them in a soothing voice.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to reward your pet for good behavior.
- Pre-Visit Consultation: Consider scheduling a pre-visit consultation with the veterinary team to familiarize your pet with the clinic environment.
At PETS.EDU.VN, we understand that preparing for a PET scan can be a stressful time for both you and your pet. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the information and support you need to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
5. What to Expect During the PET Scan: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing what to expect during the PET scan can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smoother experience for both you and your pet. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:
- Arrival and Check-In: Upon arrival, you will check in and provide any necessary paperwork. The veterinary team will review your pet’s medical history and answer any questions you may have.
- Pre-Scan Assessment: The veterinary team will assess your pet’s overall health and ensure they are stable enough for the procedure.
- Tracer Injection: The radiotracer will be injected intravenously. This process is usually quick and relatively painless.
- Waiting Period: There will be a waiting period of about 30-60 minutes to allow the tracer to distribute throughout your pet’s body.
- Positioning: Your pet will be carefully positioned on the scanning bed. Sedation or anesthesia may be administered at this time.
- Scanning: The scanning bed will slide into the PET scanner. The scan will take about 20-40 minutes. It is important that your pet remains as still as possible during this time.
- Recovery: After the scan, your pet will be monitored until they have fully recovered from any sedation or anesthesia.
- Discharge: You will receive instructions on post-scan care and schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results.
5.1. The Environment of a PET Scan Facility
PET scan facilities are typically equipped with advanced imaging technology and staffed by highly trained professionals. The environment can be intimidating for pets, so it is important to be prepared.
- Equipment: The facility will have a large PET scanner, which is a donut-shaped machine with a scanning bed that slides in and out.
- Staff: The staff will include veterinary radiologists, technicians, and nurses who are experienced in performing PET scans on animals.
- Comfort: The facility may provide blankets, toys, and other comfort items to help your pet feel more relaxed.
- Safety: The facility will adhere to strict safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure to pets and staff.
5.2. How Long Does a PET Scan Take?
The total time for a PET scan can vary, but it typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, including preparation, tracer injection, waiting period, scanning, and recovery.
- Preparation: 15-30 minutes
- Tracer Injection: 5-10 minutes
- Waiting Period: 30-60 minutes
- Scanning: 20-40 minutes
- Recovery: 30-60 minutes
5.3. What Happens After the Scan is Complete?
After the PET scan is complete, your pet will be monitored until they have fully recovered from any sedation or anesthesia. The veterinary team will provide you with instructions on post-scan care and schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure your pet’s continued health and well-being.
6. Post-PET Scan Care: Ensuring Your Pet’s Comfort and Recovery
Proper post-PET scan care is essential for ensuring your pet’s comfort and recovery. Here are some important steps to follow:
- Monitoring: Monitor your pet closely for any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions.
- Hydration: Encourage your pet to drink plenty of water to help flush the radiotracer out of their system.
- Rest: Provide a quiet and comfortable place for your pet to rest and recover.
- Feeding: Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on when and what to feed your pet.
- Medication: Administer any prescribed medications as directed by your veterinarian.
- Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to discuss the results of the scan and plan any necessary treatment.
6.1. Encouraging Hydration After the Scan
Hydration is crucial for helping your pet eliminate the radiotracer from their body. Here are some tips to encourage hydration:
- Fresh Water: Provide fresh, clean water at all times.
- Water Bowls: Place multiple water bowls around the house, especially in areas where your pet spends a lot of time.
- Wet Food: Offer wet food to increase your pet’s fluid intake.
- Flavoring: Add a small amount of low-sodium broth or unsweetened apple juice to the water to make it more appealing.
- Syringe Feeding: If your pet is reluctant to drink, try using a syringe to gently administer water into their mouth.
6.2. Monitoring for Adverse Reactions
While adverse reactions to PET scans are rare, it is important to monitor your pet closely for any signs of a problem. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following:
- Allergic Reactions: Hives, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Lethargy: Excessive sleepiness or lack of energy.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea: Persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
- Pain: Signs of pain, such as limping, whining, or guarding a particular area.
- Changes in Behavior: Unusual changes in behavior, such as aggression or confusion.
6.3. Returning to a Normal Routine
Most pets can return to their normal routine within 24-48 hours after a PET scan. However, it is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and monitor your pet closely during this time. Avoid strenuous activities and ensure your pet gets plenty of rest.
At PETS.EDU.VN, we provide comprehensive post-PET scan care guidelines to help you ensure your pet’s comfort and recovery. Our goal is to support you every step of the way, from preparation to follow-up, ensuring the best possible outcome for your furry friend.
7. Potential Risks and Side Effects of PET Scans in Pets
While PET scans are generally safe, like any medical procedure, they do carry some potential risks and side effects. It’s important to be aware of these so you can make an informed decision about your pet’s care.
- Radiation Exposure: PET scans involve exposure to a small amount of radiation. However, the risk of long-term effects from this exposure is very low.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to the radiotracer are rare but can occur.
- Injection Site Reactions: Some pets may experience mild pain or swelling at the injection site.
- Sedation/Anesthesia Risks: Sedation and anesthesia can carry risks, such as respiratory depression or cardiac arrest. However, these risks are minimized by careful monitoring and appropriate precautions.
- Inaccurate Results: In rare cases, PET scans can produce false positive or false negative results.
7.1. Understanding Radiation Exposure
One of the main concerns pet owners have about PET scans is radiation exposure. It is important to understand that the amount of radiation used in a PET scan is very low and considered safe for pets. According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), the benefits of PET scans in diagnosing and managing pet health issues far outweigh the risks associated with radiation exposure.
7.2. Minimizing Risks During the Procedure
- Pre-Scan Assessment: A thorough pre-scan assessment can help identify any potential risks or contraindications.
- Appropriate Sedation/Anesthesia: Choosing the appropriate type and dose of sedation or anesthesia is crucial for minimizing risks.
- Careful Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of your pet’s vital signs during the procedure can help detect and manage any adverse reactions.
- Proper Technique: Using proper injection and scanning techniques can minimize the risk of complications.
- Radiation Safety Protocols: Adhering to strict radiation safety protocols can minimize radiation exposure to pets and staff.
7.3. When to Seek Veterinary Attention
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following signs after a PET scan:
- Severe Allergic Reaction: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives.
- Prolonged Lethargy: Excessive sleepiness or lack of energy that lasts more than 24 hours.
- Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea: Vomiting or diarrhea that does not resolve within 24 hours.
- Severe Pain: Signs of severe pain, such as constant whining, limping, or guarding a particular area.
- Seizures: Any seizure activity.
At PETS.EDU.VN, we are committed to providing safe and compassionate care for your pets. We take every precaution to minimize the risks associated with PET scans and ensure the well-being of your furry friends.
8. Benefits of PET Scans in Diagnosing Pet Health Issues
PET scans offer numerous benefits in diagnosing and managing pet health issues. Their ability to visualize metabolic activity at a cellular level provides valuable information that other imaging techniques cannot offer.
- Early Disease Detection: PET scans can detect diseases like cancer much earlier than other imaging techniques.
- Accurate Diagnosis: They provide a more accurate diagnosis by differentiating between benign and malignant lesions.
- Treatment Planning: PET scans help veterinarians develop more effective treatment plans by identifying the extent and location of the disease.
- Treatment Monitoring: They allow veterinarians to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make adjustments as needed.
- Improved Outcomes: By providing more accurate and timely information, PET scans can lead to improved outcomes for pets.
8.1. Detecting Cancer Early
One of the most significant benefits of PET scans is their ability to detect cancer early. Cancer cells typically have a higher metabolic rate than normal cells, causing them to consume more glucose. The radiotracer FDG accumulates in these cancerous tissues, making them visible on the PET scan. According to the Veterinary Cancer Society, early detection of cancer can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival for pets.
8.2. Assessing Neurological Disorders
PET scans are also valuable in assessing neurological disorders in pets. They can help diagnose conditions like seizures, cognitive dysfunction, and brain tumors by visualizing the metabolic activity in the brain. For example, PET scans can differentiate between different types of seizures and identify areas of abnormal brain activity.
8.3. Evaluating Cardiac Function
In veterinary cardiology, PET scans can be used to evaluate heart function and detect cardiac diseases. They can help identify areas of decreased blood flow or abnormal metabolism in the heart muscle, which can indicate conditions like coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathy.
8.4. PET Scans in Inflammatory Disease Diagnosis
PET scans can be instrumental in diagnosing inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in pets. By identifying areas of inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, veterinarians can more accurately diagnose and manage these conditions.
At PETS.EDU.VN, we believe that PET scans are an invaluable tool for diagnosing and managing a wide range of pet health issues. We are committed to providing access to this advanced imaging technology to ensure the best possible care for your furry family members.
9. PET Scan Costs: What You Need to Know
The cost of a PET scan for pets can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the facility, the type of tracer used, and the complexity of the case. It’s essential to understand these costs to plan financially for your pet’s healthcare needs.
- Location: PET scan costs can vary significantly depending on the geographic location of the facility.
- Tracer Type: The type of radiotracer used can also affect the cost of the scan.
- Complexity: More complex cases may require additional imaging or specialized expertise, which can increase the cost.
- Anesthesia: The use of anesthesia or sedation will add to the overall cost.
- Veterinary Fees: Veterinary consultation fees and follow-up appointments are also included.
9.1. Factors Influencing the Cost of a PET Scan
- Facility Type: PET scans performed at specialty veterinary hospitals or university veterinary centers may be more expensive than those performed at private clinics.
- Equipment and Technology: Facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced imaging technology may charge more for PET scans.
- Veterinary Expertise: The expertise and experience of the veterinary radiologist interpreting the images can also affect the cost.
- Geographic Location: PET scan costs can vary depending on the cost of living and healthcare expenses in the area.
9.2. Average Costs of PET Scans for Pets
The average cost of a PET scan for pets can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more. This cost typically includes the tracer, the scan itself, and the interpretation of the images. Additional costs may include veterinary consultation fees, anesthesia, and follow-up appointments.
9.3. Financial Planning for a PET Scan
- Pet Insurance: Check with your pet insurance provider to see if PET scans are covered under your policy.
- Payment Plans: Some veterinary facilities offer payment plans or financing options to help you manage the cost of a PET scan.
- Veterinary Charities: Explore veterinary charities or organizations that may provide financial assistance for pet healthcare expenses.
- Budgeting: Plan your budget to accommodate the cost of the PET scan and any additional expenses.
At PETS.EDU.VN, we understand that the cost of veterinary care can be a concern for many pet owners. We are committed to providing transparent and affordable pricing for our services, including PET scans. Contact us at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States, or call us at Whatsapp: +1 555-987-6543 to discuss your pet’s needs and explore your options.
10. Frequently Asked Questions About PET Scans for Pets
Here are some frequently asked questions about PET scans for pets, along with detailed answers to help you better understand the procedure.
10.1. What is a PET scan and how does it work?
A PET scan, or Positron Emission Tomography scan, is an imaging technique that uses radioactive tracers to visualize the metabolic activity within a pet’s body. The tracer emits positrons, which are detected by the scanner, creating detailed 3D images that highlight areas of concern.
10.2. Is a PET scan painful for my pet?
No, PET scans themselves are not painful. However, certain aspects of the process, such as the injection of the radiotracer, may cause some discomfort. Sedation or anesthesia is often used to minimize anxiety and discomfort during the scan.
10.3. How do I prepare my pet for a PET scan?
Proper preparation includes fasting for a certain period, ensuring your pet is well-hydrated, discussing any medications with your veterinarian, and bringing a favorite blanket or toy to help your pet feel more comfortable.
10.4. What are the potential risks and side effects of a PET scan?
Potential risks include radiation exposure, allergic reactions, injection site reactions, and risks associated with sedation or anesthesia. However, these risks are generally low and can be minimized with proper precautions.
10.5. How long does a PET scan take?
The total time for a PET scan can vary, but it typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, including preparation, tracer injection, waiting period, scanning, and recovery.
10.6. What happens after the PET scan is complete?
After the PET scan is complete, your pet will be monitored until they have fully recovered from any sedation or anesthesia. You will receive instructions on post-scan care and schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results.
10.7. How much does a PET scan cost?
The cost of a PET scan for pets can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more, depending on several factors, including the location of the facility, the type of tracer used, and the complexity of the case.
10.8. Will pet insurance cover the cost of a PET scan?
Check with your pet insurance provider to see if PET scans are covered under your policy. Some policies may cover the cost of PET scans, while others may not.
10.9. Are PET scans safe for pregnant or lactating pets?
If your pet is pregnant or lactating, inform your veterinarian immediately. PET scans may not be safe for pregnant or lactating pets due to the risk of radiation exposure to the developing fetus or nursing young.
10.10. Where can I find a veterinary facility that offers PET scans?
Contact your veterinarian or a veterinary specialist to find a facility that offers PET scans for pets. You can also search online for veterinary hospitals or university veterinary centers that provide this service.
At PETS.EDU.VN, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and reliable information about PET scans and other veterinary procedures. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your pet’s healthcare needs and ensure they receive the best possible care.
We understand that navigating the world of pet health can be overwhelming. That’s why PETS.EDU.VN is here to provide you with reliable information and support every step of the way. From understanding complex diagnostic procedures like PET scans to finding the best local veterinary services, we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions about your pet’s care. Have more questions or need personalized advice? Visit pets.edu.vn today and explore our extensive resources or contact us directly at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States, or Whatsapp: +1 555-987-6543. Let us help you ensure your beloved companion receives the best possible care.
