Parents need to know that this series -- which is set in a veterinary emergency room -- includes plenty of blood, vomit, and close-up views of animals in distress from injury or illness. Doctors detail their patients' conditions and are honest about the animals' chances at survival. Surgery and attempts to resuscitate a dying animal can be difficult to watch, as can emotional scenes of owners grieving a pet's death or facing a decision over euthanizing an animal. While this show definitely isn't for little kids -- or anyone with a weak stomach for blood -- viewers may learn some things about animal health and behavior and modern medicine.

Families can talk about veterinary medicine. What characteristics are important in a vet? How are doctors able to handle the emotions of the job? Do you think being a vet would be more or less difficult than being a medical doctor? Why and how? What lengths would you go to in order to save your pet's life? Kids, do you have any interest in pursuing a medical career? If so, in what capacity? Families can also discuss proper pet care, animal behavior, and emotional ties between people and animals.