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

​Please arrive 5 minutes prior to your pet's appointment for check-in. If you have not filled out all relevant patient forms yet, plan to arrive 10 minutes ahead of your appointment.

While we do our best to make sure all of our patients are seen on time, there will be times of occasional unexpected delay due to an emergency or because we are providing care for a patient that needs a little more time. Please accept our apologies should this occur, and understand that the same dedication and courtesy will be provided to your pet should they ever need it.

"I have been extremely pleased with the Clinic. I came from a Clinic off Hampton Highway after that clinic harmed my dog, and it admittedly took me a while to commit to another clinic due to my trust. My dog had to receive emergency surgery and the animal hospital recommended me to Kiln Creek for follow up care. At first I was a bit confused on how their clinic worked, but as I started going through the processes, I became so impressed. First, everyone has to stay in their car and call in to let the clinic know they are there. I thought this was related to covid but quickly learned that they do this so that there are not a bunch of pets in the clinic at the same time (barking at each other, making each other nervous, etc). I thought that was extremely thoughtful and unique. As i was placed in a room to be seen, i noticed posters and informative media that explained how their clinic was run. One of the informational posters advocated for their staff. It spoke about how abuse from patrons was not tolerated and it spoke about how hard it can be to be in their jobs, and that suicide rates tend to be a bit high due to what they see and go through. I now see a clinic that advocates for not only the pets, but the staff. This is amazing to see. I then learned that when you have completed your visit, you pay in the very room you are seen. you do not have to worry about trying to hold your pet and watch other pets in the clinic while standing at a front desk to pay. Another very impressive and thoughtful policy they have put in place. Inside the rooms there are posters that explain what steps the clinic takes to make your pet comfortable, including the staff intentionally wearing clothing in colors that are less stressful for your pet, playing music that has shown to help calm your pet, and even having scents throughout the clinic that can support stress relief and relaxation. The clinic fed my dog puppuccinos (cool whip in a cup) and EZ Cheez (cheese in the can) as a treat for his blood draw and immunizations.Myself and my dog went through a lot when he became extremely ill, had emergency surgery, and then needed follow up care. One time I went in for an appointment, although not rude, I was very stressed and overwhelmed, and the staff was so forgiving and patient with me. The staff is amazing, and Dr. Spannagel even got on the phone herself to discuss with me an alarming concern I had that turned out to be nothing. I appreciate her so much. They are also accredited by the AAHA. I will now only take my dog here and I recommend anyone else there. My Dog is a service dog I received when returning from a 15 month deployment to Kabul. I need to have him as long as possible to function daily, and that added another layer of stress to him being sick. I cannot say enough just how grateful I am for this clinic and their attentiveness, thoughtfulness, and consideration to our pets, their owners, and the clinic's staff.Thank you all and look forward to seeing you again.I have attached some of the media referenced."

Bobbie J.

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