What to Expect at a Veterinary Appointment
Knowing what you should expect from your first appointment with us will help to make this process more pleasant both for you and your pet.
Get Settled
We encourage our clients to arrive at least 10 minutes early in order to fill out our New Patient Form before their pet's first appointment. To save a bit of time, you can complete the New Patient Form online in advance.
Meet Your Veterinarian
One of our veterinary staff will sit down with you and review your pet's medical history was well as discuss any health issues they may be experiencing. This is your chance to ask any questions you may have and we will be sure to dedicate time to answering them.
Examination, Diagnosis & Treatment
Once your pet has been assessed, we will provide you with a diagnosis and options for treatment. Your veterinarian will work with you to determine a treatment plan.
After your visit, we will create a detailed report of our diagnosis, the discussion we had with you, and your pet's treatment plan. We will keep this information on hand for whenever you need it.
Our Pet Care Philosophy
Aptos-Creekside Pet Hospital is dedicated to serving the pets and people across Santa Cruz County, from Aptos, Capitola and Santa Cruz to Felton, Watsonville and Prunedale. Our goal is to guide our experienced and expertly trained staff to maximize our patient’s health.
Our team approach, utilizing our vets' combined experience, skill, and knowledge along with coordination of specialty services both in-hospital and referral, ensures quality patient care delivered in a timely fashion and to a level that is above client expectations.
Hospital FAQs
Learn more about our office policies, payment options, and appointment booking by reading through our hospital FAQs.
- What types of payment options are available?
Payment in full is expected at the time services are provided or upon discharge of your pet. We accept payment by cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
- Are there payment plans available for my pet’s care?
We are proud to offer CareCredit as a financing option. They offer an easy application process that will give you results in minutes.
- Will I be provided with an estimate of costs?
We will provide a good-faith estimate of the cost of our services prior to treating your pet. However, unforeseen circumstances may arise that impact your final bill.
We will always discuss our written estimate with all clients before they leave our facility, and require a deposit based on our estimate prior to any further treatment.
- Should I call ahead to book an appointment?
Yes, please call ahead to book an appointment to ensure we have room in our schedule to see your pet.
In the event that your pet needs emergency care during our regular business hours, please contact us right away.
- What is your appointment cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can offer the space in our schedule to other clients.
- What types of animals do you treat?
We take care of small domestic pets like cats and dogs.
- Where can I purchase my pet's prescription and food?
You can purchase all the medications and specialty food your pet needs either via our online store or our in-house pharmacy.
- Can you help with my pet insurance?
We’re happy to help you fill out pet insurance forms for your pet’s visit.
- Do you offer nutritional consultations?
Yes! As part of our routine examinations, or by special request, we will provide you with guidance regarding your pet's nutritional needs.
This advice will be tailored to their life stage, special dietary requirements, and healthcare needs (such as oral health or weight management) in order to make sure that your beloved pet is getting the nutrients, and the health benefits, which will keep them happy and healthy all throughout their life.
- What services do you offer for behavioral issues?
As part of our routine exams, or by your specific request, we will be more than happy to provide you with advice about correcting and managing problematic behaviors that your pet is exhibiting.
Spraying, scratching, digging, chewing and howling or yowling can make life with your furry friend difficult, and our vets want to help you manage these issues safely and responsibly.
Pet Owner Resources
Here are some helpful links for your pet's health.
