Frequently Asked Questions
General
We offer standard veterinary checkups for you animals as well as specialised surgical services to animal owners and other veterinary hospitals. Please see our full list of surgical services for pet owners as well as our list of surgical services for other veterinarians.
Pet insurance is currently indemnity insurance, meaning, the owner pays the vet, and the insurance company reimburses the owner at a rate set by the policy. AOSSD will supply your insurance company with all needed records and documentation expediently to facilitate expedient reimbursement. Pet insurance must be established prior to any diagnosis of a problem, or it is unlikely to be covered.
If you do not yet have pet insurance please read our blog article “Why You Should Have Pet Insurance” where we discuss the benefits of pet insurance for you and your furry friend.
We currently only treat cats and dogs
Being a private vet means operating independently or within a private veterinary practice rather than working for a large corporate chain or public institution. This is important because it often allows for more personalized care, continuity with the same vet, and the flexibility to tailor services to the specific needs of clients and their pets. Additionally, private vets can offer more affordable pricing compared to larger corporate practices.
Vaccination Records: Bring any previous vaccination records or medical history.
Medication List: Include a list of any medications your pet is currently taking.
Identification: Ensure your pet has identification tags or a microchip.
Carrier or Leash: For safety and ease of transport, use a carrier for small pets or a leash for larger ones.
Medical Concerns: Note any symptoms, changes in behavior, or specific concerns you want to discuss.
Previous Test Results: If your pet has had any recent tests or procedures, bring those results if applicable.
Payment Method: Be prepared for any consultation fees or costs associated with the visit.
We unfortunately cannot accept walk ins, please make use of our online booking system or give us a call to book an appointment for your pet.
While we do not offer emergency or after-hours care, we recommend that you contact your nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic for urgent medical needs outside of our regular hours. We’re happy to assist you during our normal business hours for any follow-up or routine care.
Puppies and Kittens: Every 3-4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age.
Adult Pets: Generally, once a year. Some pets may benefit from more frequent visits based on their health and age.
Senior Pets: Every 6 months, as older pets may have more frequent health issues.
We are primarily a surgical veterinary and therefore do not offer grooming or boarding services.
For Dogs
Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus (DAPP): Core vaccines given as a series starting at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old.
Rabies: Required by law, typically given around 12-16 weeks of age.
Leptospirosis: Optional but recommended in certain areas, given as a booster after initial series.
Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Recommended if your dog is boarded, groomed, or socialized frequently.
For Cats
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP): Core vaccines given starting at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old.
Rabies: Required by law, typically given around 12-16 weeks of age.
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Optional for cats that go outdoors or live with other cats that may be infected.
We offer limited dental care. We can perform dental procedures alongside soft tissue surgeries when appropriate. However, we do not combine dental work with orthopedic procedures, as this could increase the risk of infection. Our priority is always your pet’s safety and well-being.
We do not offer those services ourselves; however, veterinary ophthalmologists specialize in this area and would be the best option for your pet’s eye care needs.
No, we do not perform ear or tail cropping as these procedures are considered medically unnecessary. Our focus is on providing care that is essential for your pet’s health and well-being.
Surgical
A qualified veterinarian will determine if your pet needs surgery, if you suspect that your animal may need surgery please bring them in for a check-up with us whereupon the need for surgery will be determined.
We perform a variety of specialised and standard animal surgeries. For a full list please visit our list of surgical services for pet owners and veterinarians.
Yes we can provide a second opinion, please book an appointment here.
Yes, as with any surgery, there are potential risks involved. These can include reactions to anesthesia, infection, bleeding, and complications related to the specific procedure. However, our team takes every precaution to minimize these risks, including pre-surgical evaluations, advanced monitoring during surgery, and providing detailed post-operative care instructions. We’re committed to ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort throughout the entire process.
During surgery, your pet will be closely monitored using advanced medical equipment. This includes ECG to track heart activity, pulse oximetry to measure oxygen levels, blood pressure monitoring, and temperature regulation. Additionally, your pet will be maintained on an anesthetic ventilator to ensure proper breathing throughout the procedure. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and safety for your pet during surgery.
Please see a full list of surgeries that we perform for veterinarians.
Surgical After Care
This is dependent on the surgery but on average the time to full recovery is 4-6 weeks, for more detailed information on the recovery for specific surgeries please visit our post-op guides which can be found on our website.
Your pet will need attention and patience to heal fully after an operation, please view our post-op guides for specific post-operative care guides.
This is dependent on the type of surgery performed. A minor surgery, including spaying or neutering will not require your pet to stay overnight, however, we may suggest it if we would like to keep an eye on your pet.
After surgery, it’s important to monitor your pet for any signs of infection or complications. Watch for:
Redness or Swelling: Increased redness, swelling, or heat around the surgical site can indicate an infection.
Discharge: Pus, a foul odor, or excessive discharge from the wound may be a sign of infection.
Fever: Elevated body temperature can be a sign of infection. Check your pet’s temperature if you suspect this.
Pain: Increased pain or sensitivity at the surgical site that isn’t relieved by prescribed pain medication.
Lethargy: Unusual tiredness or a lack of interest in activities can indicate complications.
Loss of Appetite: A significant decrease in appetite or refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours.
Vomiting or Diarrhea: Persistent vomiting or diarrhea can be a sign of complications or an adverse reaction to medication.
Changes in Behavior: Any sudden behavioral changes, such as increased aggression or hiding, can be a sign of Discomfort or pain.
Abnormal Bleeding: Excessive bleeding or blood-soaked bandages are a cause for concern.
If you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your pet’s recovery, contact your vet promptly for advice and possible intervention.
Yes, please do. The health of all our patients is our primary concern, please contact us should you have any concerns or questions
You can get your pets medication from our pharmacy. Order prescribed and over the counter medication as well as food, toys and pet gear online and have it delivered to your door.
We do not offer recovery programs like physiotherapy, acupuncture, or other rehabilitative services in-house. However, we can refer you to several trusted businesses nearby that specialize in these treatments, ensuring your pet receives the best possible care.
Puppies and Kittens
Your puppy or kitten should have their first vet visit around 6-8 weeks of age. This initial visit will include a comprehensive health check, discussion of a vaccination schedule, parasite prevention, and nutritional advice.
During the first year, puppies and kittens should have check-ups every 3-4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. After completing their initial vaccination series, a check-up every 6 months is recommended until they reach adulthood.
For Puppies
6-8 weeks: Distemper, Parvovirus (DAPP), and possibly Bordetella.
10-12 weeks: DAPP booster, Leptospirosis, and possibly Bordetella or Influenza.
14-16 weeks: DAPP booster, Rabies, and Leptospirosis.
For kittens
6-8 weeks: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP).
10-12 weeks: FVRCP booster.
14-16 weeks: FVRCP booster, Rabies.
Approximately 16 weeks of age, after the final round of vaccines have been given and your vet has given you the all clear.
TPLO
The canine cruciate ligament, or CCL, is a key ligament in a dog’s knee that connects the thigh bone to the shin bone, stabilizing the joint during movement. Damage to the CCL can cause pain and lameness, often requiring surgery to restore stability.
Please refer to our article “Is TPLO Surgery Worth It?” where we discuss this in detail
Please refere to our article “Alternatives to TPLO Surgery for Dogs” where we discuss this in detail
Please refer to our article “What is the Difference Between TTA and TPLO Surgery?” where we discuss this in detail