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Your Pet's First Visit

A pet's first visit to the vet can seem a bit daunting, so we've put together a list of info and resources to help you prepare. 

At your first appointment, we will gather information about your pet’s background, health, diet, and training. We can also address any questions or concerns you might have.

Your veterinarian will examine your pet from nose-to-tail, looking for things like heart murmurs, ear infections, and/or parasites. Your vet can also provide pet-proofing tips, training assistance, and parasite protection recommendations. 

Before Your First Appointment
  1. Complete the New Client Form prior to your first visit.
  2. Assemble and be sure to bring all the proper items with you:
    • Your pet's adoption or purchase records
    • Any existing medical history
    • A list of current medications and supplements
    • Current feeding schedule and the brand of food you use
    • A list of questions you have for your veterinarian
  3. Collect any necessary stool or urine samples, if requested.
  4. If you're bringing in your dog, be sure he or she is accustomed to being on a short leash. If you're bringing a cat, be sure to have an appropriate carrier.
  5. Feel free to bring your pet's favorite treats to keep them happy and distracted!

Appointment Policies

If you are bringing in a new pet, your new pet needs his or her own paperwork even if you have been to see us before. ​Please keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times. Frightened animals have been known to run for the open front door at the slightest provocation.

Bring all your pet´s medications. This is extremely important in cases where you have obtained medications from another doctor. If you need refills for your pet's medication(s), please let us know ahead of time to allow us to prepare them for you. Please also inform us if you need prescription foods so we can be sure to have them in stock.

Bring a urine and/or fecal sample. We recommend a fecal examination every six months. We also run tests on feces and urine if your pet is ill.

Bring any medical records from other veterinarians. The more background information we have on your pet, the more successful our treatment will be.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes ahead of time if you are a new client and need to fill out paperwork. All paperwork must be entered into the computer, and a new file must be created before you can see the doctor. Please help us get you to your appointment on time.

If you cannot make your appointment or you are running late, please call us so that we can make accommodations to fit you in or to reschedule if needed.

Emergencies

If you have an emergency, please call to let us know as you're on your way. We will try to have everything ready for you before you arrive. If your pet is ill, a quick phone call will let you know if we need to see your pet right away.

If there is an emergency, it will take priority over all appointments. We greatly appreciate your understanding in these circumstances.

Boarding

Before your pet's stay with us, please be sure we have as much contact information as possible. We need to be able to reach you immediately should questions arise about your pet's care.

Please bring any medications or special diets that may be needed during his or her stay. This is especially important for our avian (bird) patients who usually have an extremely varied diet. We want all of our guests to stay here with as much comfort as possible.

Surgical Procedures

Drop off at the time specified by the receptionist. We run bloodwork on all of our surgery candidates which must be completed early. If your pet is to be sedated and sent home on the same day, he or she must also be given enough time to recover.

Tell us if your pet was accidentally fed before a procedure! If your pet is currently on medication check with the staff prior to surgery day to determine if medications should be given before dropping off. Bring all medications that your pet is currently on.

Book Appointment (954) 491-1222

"Very knowledgeable doctor and staff. Excellent customer service!!"

B. Y.

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