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 Hearthstone Veterinary Hospital.

1. What are the Hospital hours?

   Please see the Hours page for details, under the ABOUT  US  tab.

2. Do I need to have an appointment?

    Yes, patients are seen by appointment.

3. What forms of payment do you accept?

     Cash, Check, Mastercard,Visa, American Express and Care Credit.

4. Can I make payments?

    Payment is required at the time of service. Care Credit allows you to pay over time with no interest!

5. At what age can I have my pet spayed or 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 your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are recommended at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen is suggested prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

6.  What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

   This is a blood test that is run prior to surgery. It tests the organ functions, 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.The blood should be drawn at least two (2) days before surgery to ensure the results will be in before surgery time.

7. How long do the sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?

   Most surgical procedures do not require suture removal, as they are buried under the skin. Procedures involving sutures require them to be removed in 10 -14 days following the surgery.

8.  Is it a good idea to let my pet 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 infection later in life, helping prevent spraying and marking, and also decreases the surplus of unwanted puppies and kittens.

9.  Do you board pets?

   We do not have boarding facilities. We do provide boarding for the elderly and sick pets. It is advised that you bring your pet's own food, dishes and bedding.

10.  What are your kennels like?

   Our dog kennels are all indoor. The cats  are housed in a separate area away from the dog, if possible. Blankets and food are provided for our patients, but you are always welcome to bring your own.