Paws for Wellness A happy and healthy pet starts with a plan!

Get Smart! About Antibiotics and Your Pet

PillsWe have all heard about the overuse of antibiotics in humans. The overuse of antibiotics is the most important factor contributing to antibiotic resistance. Misusing antibiotics by not taking them as prescribed is also a contributing factor.

Pets are prescribed antibiotics too and the same considerations need to be made about the use of antibiotics in pets.

Of course there are times when antibiotics are absolutely necessary to treat infections, or ward off possible infections after surgery for example. In these cases, it is important to carefully follow the directions provided by your veterinarian. The dosing instructions will be different for every breed and size of animal – what is correct for your Doberman may not be for your Corgi or your cat.

Do not stop the antibiotics when your pet appears to be feeling better – this may lead to antibiotic resistance by bacteria. Follow the directions you were provided with. Your veterinarian has had years of training and has access to the latest evidence on how long your pet should be taking the antibiotics.

NEVER use antibiotics (or over the counter medications) prescribed for human use with your pets. If you suspect your pet has an infection, see your veterinarian for the correct antibiotic and correct dosing. There are many cases of human drugs that are dangerous to pets.

Don’t even think about buying antibiotics for your pet on the internet. These antibiotics might be counterfeit and may not actually contain what the label says putting your pet’s health at risk.

Always follow your veterinarian’s advice to ensure that your pet stays healthy and to help reduce the chance of antibiotic resistance.

Note: Unused portions of antibiotics (or any medication) must be disposed of properly. Do not flush them down the toilet, pour them down the drain, or throw them in the garbage can. Return any unused antibiotics or medications to your veterinary practice for proper disposal.

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Meet Our Team

  • Dr. Laura  Neuhaus (Raiff) Photo
    Dr. Laura Neuhaus (Raiff)

    Veterinarian

    Dr. Laura Neuhaus is a graduate of the University of Missouri - College of Veterinary Medicine. Following graduation, she completed an emergency and specialty medicine internship at VCA Emergency Animal Hospital and Referral Center in San Diego. She enjoys ophthalmology and has a special interest in avian medicine. Her hobbies include gardening, hiking, and spending time outdoors. She is the proud parent of a cat and 2 parrotlets.
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    Dr. Mitchell Meyerhoeffer

    Veterinarian

    A Virginia native, Dr. Mitchell Meyerhoeffer (Dr. M is fine!) started his career in the veterinary field in high school at Chesterfield Technical Center's veterinary science program. He completed his undergraduate degree in Biology at Virginia Commonwealth University while working as a veterinary assistant in a specialty and emergency hospital. Dr. M then completed his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine training at Virginia Tech, enjoying the hiking and outdoor scenery in Blacksburg when he could ...
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    Beth

    Veterinary Technician

    Beth joined the GAH staff in April 2010. Originally from Maryland, she now lives in the Gloucester area. She has been working as a Licensed Veterinary Technician since graduating from Blue Ridge Community College in 1989. Away from work, she enjoys reading and working her dogs in obedience and agility classes. She has two dogs, three cats, four ferrets and three reptiles.
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    Becca

    Veterinary Assistant

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    Veterinary Assistant

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    Mary

    Treatment Team Lead

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    Felicia

    Kennel Care Team Lead

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    Alex

    Kennel Care Team

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    Brittany

    Kennel Care Team

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    Kennel Care Team

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    Kennel Care Team

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    Aidan

    Professional Groomer

    I'm Aidan, and I'm not your typical groomer. I'm a passionate animal lover with a heart full of love for our furry friends. Every day, I get the incredible opportunity to work my magic as a groomer at the renowned Grafton Animal Hospital. I can't express just how much I adore what I do. It's not just a job; it's a calling. I find immense joy in transforming your beloved pets into the best versions of themselves. Whether it's a shaggy dog that needs a fresh haircut, a cat in need of a spa day, or ...
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    Potato

    Grooming Manager

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    Tracy

    Practice Manager

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    Receptionist

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    Ricky

    Front Desk Supervisor

    Ricky came to Grafton Animal Hospital in April of 2011. He was a little shy at first, but once he became more comfortable with us, he became one of the team. Ricky is a Congo African Grey Parrot. We think he is around 10 years old, but no one is sure. He will sometimes put on a show of whistling, talking, singing and dancing, and imitating sounds like telephones and coughing. Visit our Facebook page for an opportunity to see Ricky in action.
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    Lucy

    Staff Meeting Coordinator

    Lucy joined the Grafton Animal Hospital reception team as the new Noisemaker bird in September 2016. After losing our long-time mascot, Croaker, earlier that year, we learned of a young Quaker parrot available for adoption at the Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter and decided she might be a good fit for the clinic. Lucy quickly made herself at home and before long, she was showing the staff who was really in charge. She is generally pretty friendly, so you will often see the staff holding her. ...
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    Daisy & Duke

    Staff Meeting Coordinators

    Daisy and Duke joined the GAH team in June of 2009. They were stray kittens that needed a home, and Squeaks was in need of a brother or sister. After some convincing, we were able to keep both. If you haven’t seen our kittens roaming the clinic, it’s because they are still learning their way around. For now, they are great morale boosters that keep us entertained during our staff meetings.
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