Policies and Procedures

Policies and Procedures

The Practice Act of California requires a minimum of an examination within one year to maintain a current veterinarian/client/patient relationship. Without this relationship, we are unable to give medical advice over the phone, prescribe, or disperse medications. We would be happy to schedule an examination for your pet.

Appointment Policy

Please call to schedule an appointment for your pet or for a consultation. If you have an emergency, an advance phone call will help us be prepared for your pet’s arrival. We make every effort to see patients at their scheduled time. However, life threatening emergencies can disrupt our appointment schedule and cause unavoidable delays.

If your pet has been under the care of another veterinarian, advance preparation helps make the most of your appointment time. Please have your records faxed to us at: (408) 265-8355 (San Jose hospital) or (650) 851-9223 (Redwood City hospital) and request that any x-rays be sent by email or courier. We should receive these at least one day prior to your appointment so our doctors have time to review them. Also, please bring a complete list with you of any medications and supplements your pet is currently taking.

As of April 15th, 2025 at our San Jose location, we are expanding limited clientele inside our hospital. Our waiting room will remain closed. Up to two clients will be allowed entry for the duration of the exam. The clients must be financially responsible for the patient, over 18 years of age, and able to make any and all medical decisions regarding the patient.

Curbside appointments will remain available. If you are accompanied by anyone under the age of 18 years or another pet (that will not be coming inside the hospital), they cannot be left unattended (without supervision of an adult) and the appointment must be curbside. These and other protocols are in place for the safety of you, your family, our clients, and our staff. We thank you for your understanding.


Patient Arrival Policy

We request that your pet be confined to a cage or carrier or on a leash at all times during the hospital visit. This is necessary not only for your pets safety but for your protection, and that of others as well as the sanitation of our environment.


Payment Options

  1. Payment is expected when services are rendered. In order to focus on our patients’ needs, customer service and minimizing costs, we do not bill.
  2. We accept debit cards and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover).

Insurance For Your Pets

Another popular option for your family and pet is insurance coverage. To learn more, please visit the following pet insurance websites.


24 Hour Cancellation Policy

If less than 24 hour notice is given to cancel or reschedule your appointment, you will be charged the exam fee.


48 Hour Surgery Cancellation Policy

If less than 48 hour notice is given to cancel or reschedule your surgery, the surgery deposit will be forfeit.


1 Week Specialist Cancellation Policy

If less than 1 week notice is given to cancel or reschedule your specialist appointment, the specialist deposit will be forfeit.


Late Arrivals Policy

Appointments involving clients arriving more than ten minutes late may be considered “Missed Appointments” and may need to be rescheduled. If you think you are going to be late for your appointment, please call us to determine if your late arrival can be accommodated or if you will need to reschedule.