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 veterinarian can also provide pet-proofing tips, training assistance, and parasite protection recommendations.
Before Your First Appointment:
- Complete all relevant Patient Forms prior to your first visit.
- We do require that any existing medical history be emailed over prior to your appointment.
- Collect any necessary stool or urine samples if requested.
- 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.
- Feel free to bring your pet’s favorite treats to keep them happy and distracted!
What is your Appointment Policy?
Topsail Animal Hospital continues to experience a high demand for appointments with our veterinarians. We do request that clients uphold their appointment and arrive on time. Failed appointments take away the opportunity for another pet owner or sick patient to receive medical care. We request that you let us know as soon as possible if you are not able to make it to your pet’s appointment.
Topsail Animal Hospital is open 6 days per week and will make every effort to meet the needs of our valued patients. Our schedule can book up quickly so we encourage clients to call in advance to schedule an appointment. The veterinarians at Topsail Animal Hospital will make every effort to see your pet when they are ill or in need of medical treatment.
Please Note: Any appointment arriving more than 15 minutes late may need to be rescheduled and/or dropped off to be worked in at a later time.
What is your Prescription Refill Request Policy?
Many of our patients require the use of medications on a long-term basis. Topsail Animal Hospital has a fully stocked pharmacy available to refill and dispense medications.
In accordance with the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) we are also NOT permitted to split pills for our clients. Any prescription medication that requires the splitting of a pill MUST be done by the client. If you need to purchase a pill cutter, they are available at any local human pharmacy.
In order to request a refill for your pet’s medication we ask that you please call our office 24 hours in advance. Most of our prescription requests will be filled within the same day but we ask that you allow 48 hours for any prescriptions to be filled to allow our team to review the request and your pet’s medical record., or to inform you that additional examination and/or diagnostics are needed in order for the prescribing doctor to authorize the refill.
Please be aware that if 24-hour notice is not provided for your refill request we may be unable to refill the prescription immediately, which may require you to return to pick up your pet’s refill at a later time.
Please Note: We respect the right of our clients to get their pet’s medications from the pharmacy of their choice. Unfortunately, there is a high number of requests by online pharmacies that are inappropriate and inaccurate. By filling your prescriptions with us directly, we can provide the safest and most efficient service for your prescription refills. If you are choosing to have a prescription filled through another pharmacy, we are happy to prepare a written prescription for you to pick up, just as your doctor supplies you with a written prescription for any human medications. Please be aware that most online pharmacies require the original prescription to be mailed to them. We advise that you keep a copy for your records and ensure that you receive the correct medication with the correct dosing instructions. If you opt for an external pharmacy, you are required to collect a written prescription from us—a $5 prescription fee applies for items we stock.