SICK & ILLNESS VISITS

Attentive medical care focused on diagnosing concerns quickly and treating your pet effectively.

Quick, Attentive care for pets

At Paw Springs, sick visits are designed to give you answers quickly—without sacrificing the thoughtful, personalized care your pet deserves. 

When something feels off, it’s not always easy to know what’s wrong or how serious it might be. Our veterinary team takes a thorough, compassionate approach to evaluate symptoms, identify the root cause, and create a clear plan to get your pet feeling better as soon as possible. 

What is a sick visit?

Sick visits focus on diagnosing and treating sudden or ongoing health concerns when your pet isn’t acting like themselves. 

Services May Include: 

  • Physical exams and symptom evaluation 
  • Diagnostic testing (bloodwork, fecal, urinalysis) 
  • Treatment for common illnesses (GI upset, infections, respiratory issues) 
  • Pain management and supportive care 
  • Medication recommendations and prescriptions 
  • Ongoing monitoring or follow-up visits if needed

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Gretchen Hutt DVM

Chief Veterinary Officer

Originally from Louisville, Ky. Dr. Gretchen graduated from University of Kentucky with an undergraduate degree and then Auburn University with a DVM in 1984. She owned a practice in Durham for 28 years and then thought she was going to retire in Wilmington.

Dr. Allison Hanson

Veterinarian

With more than 23 years of experience in veterinary medicine, Dr. Hanson has cared for pets through every stage of life. Her areas of expertise include preventive care, internal medicine, dermatology, surgery, dentistry, hospice care, and client education—but above all, her passion lies in building lasting relationships with pets and the families who love them.

Signs your pet may need this service?

You know your pet best, if something feels off, it’s worth checking. Schedule a visit if you notice: 

  • Vomiting or diarrhea 
  • Loss of appetite or sudden weight changes 
  • Lethargy or decreased energy 
  • Coughing, sneezing, or breathing changes 
  • Limping or signs of pain 
  • Behavioral changes or unusual habits 

Early evaluation helps us diagnose issues sooner and start treatment before symptoms worsen. 

Frequently Asked Questions