Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)

If you do not find the answer to your question on this page, please contact us.

Do I need to have an appointment?
If you know your pet will need an appointment, it is strongly reccomended that you call and schedule one. Appointments are the most econimical and efficient way to have your pet seen. Federal law requires your pet must have had an exam within the past 12 months to continue refills on prescription medication or annual vaccinations.
Do you see emergencies and walk-ins?
Absolutely. Emergencies will be seen according to severity and walk-ins will be worked into our schedule. Please note however, if you know your pet will need an appointment in advance, it will benefit you to have a scheduled appointment.
What are your hours?
Click here to see the hours for both of our locations.
How do I get to your facility?
Click here for our addresses and to get directions to either of our facilities.
What methods of payment do you accept?
Cash, ATM, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.
Can I make payments?
Payment is required at the time of service. A 50% deposit of the estimated cost is required upon leaving your pet for surgeries, procedures, hospitalization or ward occupancy. The balance is due upon pick-up.
Do you offer financing?
Financing is available through a Wells Fargo Prefered Customer Account. This free credit application process takes aproximately 15 minutes to complete. Credit financing offers ninety days same as cash.
Do you offer insurance?
Pet insurance is available through Pet's Best Insurance. Click here for more information.
Do you have coupons or special offers?
Yes. Click here to get our latest coupons.
What is the normal body temperature for dogs and cats?
Whereas the normal human temperature is around 97.8°F, the normal temperature for dogs and cats is between 100.6°F and 102.6°F. Temperatures may vary according to an individual, or due to stress from being in hospital. Our veterinarians will tell you if a temperature is normal according to your pet.
Can animals get allergies?
Of course! If you think your pet may be suffering from allergies, make an appointment for allergy testing to find out the best treatment option for them.
When should I have my pet vaccinated?
All dogs and cats should begin with a series of booster vaccinations at eight, twelve, and sixteen weeks of age. Routine vaccintations are then given every year, with the exception of the bordetella vaccine that is given to dogs every six months. To read more about vaccine information, click here.
What do the routine vaccinations include?
Routine vaccinations for dogs include DHLPPC, Bordetella and Rabies. Routine vaccinations for cats include FVRCP and Rabies (for outdoor cats the feline Leukemia vaccine is strongly suggested). Click here to read more information about these vaccinations and the diseases they help prevent.
When should I have my pet spayed/neutered?
Spaying or neutering can be done at approximately 6 months of age. Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether they are healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery, and pre-anesthetic bloodwork and an EKG are strongly recommended prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.
What is reccomended for a spay/neuter?
Recommendations are based upon your doctor with your individual pet's needs in mind, but typically include the pre-op examination, any vaccines that may be due (click here for more information about vaccinations), a pre-anesthetic EKG and in-house mini panel (bloodwork), pre-anesthetic pain and anti-inflamitory injections, IV catheter, anesthesia, fluoride, microchipping, hospitalization, pain and anti-inflamitory medicines and antibiotics (if needed) to go home, and an "e-collar" to prevent your pet from disturbing the incision site.
Will my pet need pain medication after being spayed/neutered?
With any major surgery, pain medication and anti-inflamatories are helpful in a speedy and comfortable recovery.
What should I expect after having my pet spayed/neutered?
Each individual pet is unique, but typically your pet will resume normal eating habits within 24 to 36 hours. Resrticted activity is best for 10 to 14 days. If sutures are required, they will be removed at 10 to 14 days.
How important are flea preventatives?
Extremely. In the state of California fleas do not go dormant, therefore year round treatment is safest for your pet and your family. There are great inexpensive monthly flea products available at both of our locations, click here for more information about the flea products we carry.
How important is it to have my dog on a heartworm preventative?
Extremely. Heartworms are easily preventable. It only takes one mosquito to pass along heartworm disease, therefore yearly heartworm tests are recommended. Speak to your doctor about the best heartworm preventative for your pet. Click here to read more information about the once a month heartworm preventatives we offer.
I adopted a new pet, should I do anything special prior to introducing it to my other pets?
Well pet check ups and vaccines are highly recommended.
Do you have a groomer?
Yes. We have a professional groomer at our Lone Tree office. Please call (925)757-4814 to schedule a grooming appointment. For your convenience, our staff at Antioch Veterinary Hospital also offers pedicures (nail trims), baths, and sanitary clips.
Do you offer pet boarding?
Yes, by reservation. Feline reservations are offered at both locations although dog kennels are at our W 10th St location only. Current exam and vaccinations are required. Please allow 20 minutes for scheduled boarding check-ins. Please note, this may be a convenient time to have your pets surgical or dental procedures done knowing that the staff at Antioch Veterinary Hospital will provide appropriate follow-up care of your loved one.
I'm going out of town and boarding is not an option, what information should I leave with my veterinarian?
It is imporant that you leave the name of your petsitter and emergency care instructions with your veterinarian.
What information should I leave the petsitter?
You should leave your petsitter with your veterinary care providier's name and phone number along with care authorization in case of an emergency. You should also list your pet's normal feeding habits and amount, typical urination and bowel movement schedule, and if medication is needed, leave a schedule with time(s) and proper dosage.