Do I need an appointment?
Yes, wellness and sick visits are scheduled by appointment. Existing clients may schedule a drop-off appointment to leave their pet with us if it’s easier for their schedule.
What are technician appointments?
These are scheduled appointments performed by our licensed veterinary technicians that do not incur an examination fee. These appointments are for kennel cough vaccines, nail trims, anal gland expressions or blood draws that have been requested by a doctor. Laser treatments are also part of the tech schedule.
When should I drop my pet off for a procedure?
Drop-offs for surgery should arrive between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. while drop-off appointments should arrive between 9:00 a.m. and noon.
When may I pick my pet up?
This depends on the day’s schedule and any diagnostics or procedures needed. A staff member will communicate a pick-up time with you. Animals do not stay overnight at Shady Grove Animal Clinic.
Why does my dog need a heartworm or fecal test every year?
The American Heartworm Society recommends a heartworm antigen test be performed annually. This is to ensure that heartworm infections are detected and treated in a timely manner. Testing also protects against administering a preventative to a heartworm positive dog, which can cause a reaction. Fecal tests are run annually to detect gastrointestinal parasites, which can pose health concerns to pets and owners.
Do I really need to do flea/tick and heartworm prevention year round?
To be maximally effective, the American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention and so does Shady Grove Animal Clinic. Flea and tick prevention is a must during our warm weather months and is often required during the winters in Richmond.
Do I have to do blood work and an EKG prior to anesthesia?
Pre-anesthetic lab work and an EKG is recommended for all pets to keep them as safe as possible while under anesthesia. Our doctors may make it optional in some healthy, young pets.
Do you board or groom animals?
No.
Can I send you an e-mail with a picture of what is wrong with my pet?
No, because pictures don’t always give a true representation of what’s going on with your pet. Email is not an ideal way to communicate with us. We prefer to talk to our clients, so please call us instead of sending an email.
What do I need to do before my pet’s surgery?
We ask that you not feed your pet after 10 p.m. the night prior to their procedure. Water is okay. If medications are required, check with your veterinarian as to how to administer them.
What is the schedule of visits for puppies and kittens?
Although this may vary from case to case, generally puppies and kittens visit us three times for vaccines, dewormings and examinations between the ages of 7-16 weeks.