What To Expect at NIVES

What to expect during an emergency visit/consultation....

Over the phone-

Our veterinary support staff is on duty 24 hours a day to answer questions and direct your phone calls. The receptionists can assess your concerns and help you determine whether your pet requires immediate medical attention. Our staff is ready and willing to help-- in addition to your emergency needs, we welcome you to call with any question or concern you have about your pet.

We also provide information regarding our current examination fees, payment policies, and can arrange an appointment with a specialist if necessary.

Initial Triage-

It is important to assess each emergency upon presentation to determine potentially life-threatening problems that require immediate medical intervention. Upon arrival, your pet will be examined by a trained veterinary nurse. If any part of the initial history or physical exam suggests a serious problem, the nurse may ask permission to take your pet to our treatment area for a more thorough assessment of vital signs and examination by the doctor. After examining your pet, the veterinarian will discuss with you your pet’s medical status and quickly address options for immediate medical intervention.Approximate cost and prognosis will be discussed to help you make an informed decision regarding your pet's emergency care.

Waiting to be seen-

Once at our office, if your pet is found to be in stable condition, you may be asked to wait in an exam room or the reception area and a veterinarian will be with you as soon as possible to examine your pet and discuss treatment options.

Please remember that our hospital frequently treats critical animals that require life-saving intervention. We do our best to keep wait times to a minimum while still providing quality care.

We ask for you patience during these wait periods as we assist critical animals and their families. You and your pet are very important to us and we strive to make your visits as quick and efficient as possible.

Outpatient treatment-

Once you are escorted into an exam room, a detailed history and physical exam will be performed by the attending doctor. At that time, potential etiologies, diagnostics, and treatment plans will be discussed regarding the best possible care of your pet.

It is very important to discuss all your questions and concerns with the doctor at that time. Based on the information you provide, the veterinarian can recommend the best possible treatment options for your pet.

If the pet is treated on an outpatient basis, detailed instructions will be given for your pet’s care at home, as well as any follow up options. We often recommend follow-up appointments with your family's primary care veterinarian.

Inpatient treatment-

If your pet requires hospitalization, a detailed treatment plan will be provided to outline your pet’s medical needs. The doctor and staff will thoroughly discuss your pet’s illness and the expected course of treatment.

In addition to the initial care plan, we provide a medical consent form to clarify your continuing treatment wishes. This form allows you to list any current health conditions or medications your pet is taking, provide us with your emergency contact numbers, determine your resuscitation code selection and clarify your financial commitment.

We require a deposit of 50% of your treatment plan cost prior to hospitalization. Please refer to our fees and financial assistance page to review our payment options and policies.