Before Your Appointment
Appointment Policy
To
allow ample time for all patients and scheduled surgical procedures, we
operate primarily by appointment. Emergency cases will always
receive top priority, which is why occasional appointment delay is
inevitable. Please realize that we make a sincere attempt to see
each client on time.
Patient Arrival Policy
Even
though we make every effort to make our patients feel comfortable
during visits, they may be stressed by new people, new surroundings and
other pets. This is one of the reasons we insist you restrain
your pet, usually a leash for dogs or pet carriers for cats and
exotics, before entering the hospital. For your protection, and
that of others, all dogs must be on a leash and properly controlled
while in the waiting area and exam rooms.
We
do offer separate entrances for our older or disabled clients and
patients. We also offer separate entrances for animals that may
be aggressive or overly stressed by other animals. If any of
these is the case, please contact us to make special arrangements or
simply come in alone first to talk to our receptionist.
First Appointment Checklist
In
order to provide the best care possible, we ask that you consider the
following before your appointment and be prepared to discuss the
appropriate subjects. Note, if someone other than the owner is
bringing in the animal, you should inform them about as much of the
pets medical history as possible:
- ProperRestraint / Carrier / Leash
- Previous Medical / Vaccination Records
- Flea / Tick / Heartworm Prevention
- Nutrition / Diet / Supplements
- Skin Issues
- Behavior or Lifestyle Issues (are they around other animals? Do they board often? Do they swimoften?)
- Medications
- Long-Term Medical Conditions
- Fecal Sample
- Urine Sample (if a Urinary Tract Infection is suspected)
- Appropriate Forms as Required (see below)
Obtaining Records from Other Clinics
At
RRAH we often see pets coming from other clinics for “second opinions”,
emergencies, and people visiting or new to the area. If you bring
records from your previous providers we will be happy to accept all
valid vaccinations and health care reminders in accordance with the
laws of North Carolina. You may also have your records faxed to
us at 910-454-8912 or e-mail at info@rrvet.com.
We will also be happy to contact your previous clinic for you to have
the appropriate records transferred if they are able to accommodate
such requests.
Forms
At
River Road Animal Hospital we understand that now more than ever your
time is extremely important. We strive to spend the appropriate
amount of time with you and your pets, but want to expedite the
necessary process of record keeping. We provide these forms for
your convenience. Please feel free to download, print and fill
them in at your leisure. Then bring them with you for your next
(or first!) appointment to save time during check-in.
When It's Time to Say Goodbye
We
have all experienced the pain of losing a pet. The Association of Pet Loss and Bereavement has set up a site for support during this most
difficult time. You will find inspirational stories, grief counseling
resources, hotline number and many other informational resources.
You may download our When It's Time to Say Goodbye form to fill out from the comfort of your own home. We utilize the services of Southeastern Pet Cremation. Please feel free to browse their website for choice of services and urns or contact us if you need any assistance. |
