Hospital Procedures

Appointments

We fully understand that you maintain a busy schedule. We do everything we can to simplify your life as a pet owner. For your convenience we offer:

• Appointments 7 days a week
• Evening hours until 7:40 p.m. Monday through Friday
• Early morning drop off time for admissions
• Evening discharge appointments

Many pet owners like to schedule appointments with the same doctor each visit, while other pet owners like to get to know each doctor on our staff. We are happy to accommodate you whatever your preference.

Drop-offs

Pets being admitted to the hospital for a scheduled procedure or for surgery are asked to arrive with their owners:
Between 7:30 and 8 a.m.
or between 8:30 and 9 a.m.

You will be greeted by one of our licensed veterinary nurses who will speak to you about your pet.

• You will be asked if any medication was given the morning of admission.
• You will be told when you can call to check on your pet.
• You will be told when your pet is expected to be discharged (if this can be predicted).
• You will have your questions answered... no question will be considered unimportant or unnecessary.
• You will be asked to leave a deposit when you sign the paperwork. The amount of the deposit is usually one half of the projected estimated total.
• Please take your pet's leash and collar home with you, as well as your carrier, if you are returning home after leaving the hospital.

You will be told when you can call the hospital to check your pet's status.

You should have one family member assume the responsibility of calling the hospital. You can feel comfortable checking on your pet several times during the day and evening if this will put you at ease. Our role is to make this separation as painless as possible for both you and your hospitalized pet.

Discharges

Taking your pet home from the hospital.

It is a warming experience to reunite the pets we have cared for with their owners who have entrusted us with their special companions.

• You will be told to check with our receptionist the day of discharge.
• In most case, you will be asked to call after 10 a.m. when the doctors have finished rounds and all of the hospital cases have been examined, treated and/or evaluated.
• The receptionist will tell you when your pet will be ready to go home and you will be given an appointment with a doctor to discuss the pet's condition, review recommendations and to talk about follow up care. In some cases, one of our nursing staff will speak to you and then discharge your pet.
• You will be given a set of discharge instructions, which will require your signature. You will also be given a copy of your pet's bill.
• We want the formalities taken care of first so that you can give your full attention to the nurse's or doctor's words. We want you to fully understand the instructions and explanations before you and your pet are reunited.
• Your instruction sheet will tell you when next to feed your pet.
• Your pet's activity or rest requirements will be discussed.
• If your pet has sutures, you will be instructed how to care for them.
• Your instruction sheet will talk about follow up visits and progress exams.