When preparing for an initial exam, expect to spend about an hour with the veterinarian in order to collect a detailed history, perform a physical exam, and discuss a viable health care plan. Pets should be contained in a room or area where they cannot hide and prevent examination (a bathroom without heavy furniture is usually an ideal containment area). When you schedule an appointment, be sure to mention any challenges that may be encountered or behavioral issues that exist. Also, if previously known medical problems or prior records are available, be sure to provide them in advance so that we are best prepared.|
The team at our sister practice, Golden Gate Veterinary Home Hospice and Euthanasia, are experts in end-of-life care and are available to assist you during this challenging time. Quality of life, hospice care and humane euthanasia services are all offered. For all of our patients we are most concerned with pain management, providing the highest quality of care and creating a stress-free experience for pet and guardian. We will be your partner in helping you make the best decisions for your animal companion. Contact us today at (415) 665-1340 or follow the link below for more information.
Within our service area, between 10AM and 4PM, the fee for an initial consult up to one hour with a veterinarian is $300. Each additional 1/2 hour is $50. Non-urgent calls must be made 24 hours in advance. Urgent or same day calls are an additional $75. We perform the most thorough evaluation an animal will allow without causing unnecessary stress. This includes a physical exam with blood pressure, nail trim, hygienic clip, anal gland expression, and ear cleaning if needed. If a patient is anxious, fearful, aggressive, or otherwise difficult to exam, we may recommend sedation in order to perform the examination and treatments.
Keeping your pet healthy is more about prevention than treatment of disease.Throughout all stages of life, our goal is to avoid health problems before they emerge. Regular wellness exams and basic blood work are the best modalities to detect underlying issues. An open line of communication also allows us to review any changes in lifestyle, and alert us to areas of travel that may impact preventative plans. For example, tick borne disease prevention may be warranted before a camping trip outside the city. Or, you may be considering bringing an additional animal into the home and want to avoid introducing disease or parasites. By keeping open communication with our patients’ owners, we can solve most veterinary problems before they ever arise, saving you time and money and minimizing your pet’s stress.