Pet Owners

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE:

You do have an option to drop off your pet so that you do not have to wait, please ask our receptionist for more information.

We are a walk-in urgent care facility. We take a predetermined number of non-scheduled appointments per day on a first come, first serve basis.

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When you arrive:

  • If it is before 9 AM - our phones are not yet on.

    • There is a list outside of our front door to place your name and phone number on - this is the order in which pets will be seen. This ensures that whoever gets to our building first (even if before we open) - will be seen first.

    • Please keep in mind that emergencies arise. If a pet is critical and in need of immediate attention, it will be given priority.

  • Please call 412-998-9030 when you arrive. Our receptionist will check you in. You will be given our estimated wait time (please note the it varies daily).

  • If you elect to wait with your pet, a technician will call you when it is your turn for an exam room. They will gather a history and will obtain vitals on your pet. You are now closer in line to seeing a doctor.

    • Please note the wait time in rooms will vary. Priority is given to critical patients and to euthanasias. We do value your time and patience and are working very hard to keep your wait time as minimal as possible.

  • Your pet will be seen by a doctor, given a complete physical exam, a recommendation of diagnsotics and treatment. An estimate is available for every service via request.

All veterinarians in our area are experiencing unprecedented high patient volume and extended wait times. We want to be as transparent as possible. Our urgent care team triages the most critical patients first. Please note, since we are unable to anticipate when a critical case will arrive, wait times are variable and nearly impossible to predict. Unfortunately, our wait times may average 4-5+ hours. 

We understand that waiting any amount of time is stressful. We offer a drop off service if the wait time is not feasible for your schedule. The veterinarian will call as soon as they have examined your pet and will go over any recommendations or treatments needed. Ask our front desk staff for this convenient service. 

Downloadable Forms

  • New Patient Form - Dog

    CLICK HERE

    Our New Patient Form allows us to get to know your dog better. With this questionairre, we will learn about your dogs activity level, diet, and lifestyle preferences, which may help us better treat diseases and offered more tailored preventative care. Please download this form and fill out if possible before arriving to your appointment.

  • New Patient Form - Cat

    CLICK HERE

    Our New Patient Form allows us to get to know your cat better. With this questionairre, we will learn about your cats favorite things, diet, and lifestyle preferences, which may help us better treat diseases and offered more tailored preventative care. Please download this form and fill out if possible before arriving to your appointment.

  • Surgery Consent Form

    CLICK HERE

    If your pet is having surgery, do not worry - we will assure the most thorough and exemplary anesthetic and surgical care. We use gold started protocols and high end monitoring to ensure the safest and best possible outcome. Please fill out this consent form prior to any procedure. We will also discuss this and answer all questions the day of your procedure. You will drop your pet off between 8:30-9:00 the day of your appointment. Ensure no food or water for at least 12 hours prior.

FAQs

Does my pet need to be seen?

Many times it is tough as a pet owner to know when your animal needs to go to see a doctor and when it is okay for them to stay home. We understand this so we encourage everyone to call us at 412-998-9030 if you have any questions about your pet's health. While it may be difficult for us to answer questions without seeing your pet, below is a list of common emergencies that must be seen as soon as possible. When in doubt, bring your pet in.

  • Breathing problems

  • Excessive Bleeding

  • Loss of consciousness

  • Hit by car

  • Pale white colored gums

  • Eye injuries

  • Prolonged vomiting

  • Neurological abnormalities (seizures, paralysis, circling, etc.)

  • Straining to urinate or not producing urine, especially in male cats

  • Non-productive retching and/or distended (bloated) abdomens especially in large breed dogs

  • Heat stroke

  • Vomiting blood

  • Toxin ingestion

  • Prolonged labor

Do you see exotic pets?

We occasionally will see exotic pets (birds, reptiles, pocket pets) - you should call first as it depends on which doctor is available.

My animal is having surgery tomorrow.  What can I expect?

Please take their food away by 10:00 PM the night before surgery. There is no need to limit their access to water at any time. Click here to download our surgery consent form in preparation. You will arrive between 8:30-9:00 for a drop off and discussion with the surgical nurse. At this time all paperwork and questions will be answered. Please allow at the minimum of 30 minutes for a drop off. Most surgeries will go home before 6 PM.

Are you taking new patients?

Always! We are always thrilled to meet new patients. Our hospital works as a walk-in basis; you may walk in any time during normal business hours. If you would like a scheduled appointment, see the online portal or give us a call.

My pet ate…

If your pet ingested a toxin or drug of any sort, we encourage you to call poison control immediately: (888) 426-4435. We also recommend a walk in appointment. Bring the reference number provided by poison control. If your pet ate an object, we recommend a walk in appointment for x-rays.

How long will I have to wait?

Since we are a walk-in friendly facility that sees urgent cases, our wait times are sometimes unpredictable. Our patients are triaged with the life threatening emergencies taking priority. You will certainly be updated on an estimated wait time when you arrive and during your wait.

How much is an exam fee?

The walk in exam fee is $115 dollars. Your scheduled appointment (Wednesday/Thursday only) is $75. Additional costs are determined according to what is happening with your pet’s condition, and these costs will be provided to you in a written estimate. Payment is due at the time services are rendered.

What if I can’t afford care?

Medicine can be expensive and, unfortunately, many pets do not have insurance.

Care Credit is a medical credit card offered through GE. It is accepted by many veterinary, dental, and cosmetic medical offices and will allow you to make monthly payment for your services. The card offers varying payment options with low interest or interest free payment options.
To apply or for more information please visit www.carecredit.com

Read about our P.A.W.S. Donation Fund. This is a donation based program that may help contribute to your pets care in a life threatening situation. This fund is a 501c3.

The Humane Society also provides a list of financial aid organizations.