Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions/answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at (925) 625-3722.

1. What are the hospital hours?
   Our hospital is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. On Saturdays we are open every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, from 8:30 am until 3:00 p.m. We are closed on Sundays and federal holidays such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, 4th of July, Christmas Day, New Years Day and Thanksgiving.
2. Do I need to have an appointment?
   Yes, all patients are seen by appointment only.
3. What forms of payment do you accept?
   Cash, Check, Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay and Care Credit (we recommend applying for Care Credit before your appointment at carecredit.com/apply)
   *There is a 3% surcharge for all credit card transactions*
4. Can I make payments?
   Full payment is required at the time of service. If you are in need of financial aid, we recommend applying for Care Credit before your visit.
5. At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?
   Spaying or neutering can be done at approximately 6 months of age. A physical exam by one of our veterinarians and up-to-date vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. Also, a pre-anesthetic blood screen is recommended prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery. You will also be given the option to microchip your pet.
6. What is a pre-anesthetic blood screening?
   This is a blood test that is run here in the clinic prior to surgery. It tests organ function, blood counts and clotting function of your pet. The pre-anesthetic blood screening is done to assure safety during surgery and the ability to heal following surgery.
7. How long do the sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?
   Procedures involving sutures or staples require them to be removed in 10-14 days following the surgery. Please see our surgical FAQ page for further information on surgery.
8. Is it a good idea to let my dog or cat have at least one litter?
   No, there is no advantage to letting your pet have one litter. However there are plenty of advantages to having your pet spayed or neutered. These advantages include decreasing the chances of breast tumors later in life, decreasing the chance of cystic ovaries and uterine infections later in life, decreasing the desire to roam the neighborhood, decreasing the incidence of prostate cancer later in life, helping prevent spraying and marking, and also decreases the surplus of unwanted puppies and kittens.
9. Do you board pets?
   We are sorry, but we do not offer routine boarding or grooming. We are happy to make recommendations for local boarding facilities based on client feedback.