What to Expect at a Veterinary Appointment
Knowing what to expect at your first appointment with us will help make the process more pleasant for both you and your companion.
1. Get Settled
We ask that you try to arrive approximately 10 minutes early to fill out our New Patient Form. To save a bit of time, you can complete the New Patient Form online in advance.
2. Veterinary Examination
One of our veterinarians will review your animal companion's medical history and discuss your concerns about their health. They will then perform a thorough examination of your companion. You can ask any questions you want, and we'll dedicate time to answering them.
3. Diagnosis & Treatment
Once your pet has been assessed, we will provide you with a diagnosis and options for treatment.
After your visit, we will create a detailed report of our diagnosis and your pet's treatment plan. We will keep this information readily available for whenever it may be needed.
Our Pet Care Philosophy
Creston Veterinary Hospital has proudly served patients across the Kootenays since 1973. We've developed a team that upholds the highest standards in veterinary care and practices with a strong community service philosophy in mind.
From the moment you enter our clinic, you’ll be greeted by one of our amazing receptionists and assisted by our knowledgeable RVTs before meeting with the doctor. We will do all we can to ensure that you and your four-legged friend feel welcome and appreciated every visit.
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, cheque, Visa and MasterCard.
You can also use Trupanion which can pay your pet’s veterinary bills directly. All you have to do is pay your portion of the bill at checkout. Claims have never been so easy!
- Are there payment plans available for my pet’s care?
We are proud to offer Pet Card I-finance as a financing option. It offers an easy application process that will give you results in minutes.
- Will I be provided with an estimate of costs?
Integrity is important to us. We are happy to 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 may require a deposit based on our estimate prior to any further treatment.
- Should I call ahead to book an appointment?
Yes, it's important to call ahead to book an appointment in order to ensure we have room in our schedule to see your animal companion.
In the event that your pet needs urgent care during our regular business hours, please contact us right away.
- How do I submit fecal and urine samples?
Fecal: The next time your dog defecates, be sure to bring the sample in a ziplock bag. Samples should be brought in as fresh as possible, within four to six hours is ideal. Make sure the sample is refrigerated before bringing in!
Urine: To collect urine, be sure to take your dog for a walk and keep them close. Have a ladle or collection utensil ready (preferably something you don’t want back) for the moment they begin to urinate. Be sure to use your utensil to collect as much as possible and put it in a container to bring to us. Please keep the sample refrigerated.
- How do drop-off appointments work?
A drop-off appointment is an unscheduled visit to our office. The doctor will see your pet at the earliest possible time, which may not be until the end of the day. You will be contacted when necessary to discuss your pet’s treatment plan. You can drop your pet off while they wait for their appointment, and your pet will be monitored and cared for throughout the day.
- What is your appointment cancellation policy?
As a courtesy to all of our clients, we ask that you respect our scheduling policies. Please notify us at least 24 hours in advance of any cancellations. We understand that conflicts with schedules can happen, and advise you to call and touch base with our team as soon as possible.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice are subject to a cancellation fee of $55.42 without notice.
- What types of animals do you treat?
We take care of all domestic pets. We also treat exotic pets and large animals such as birds, rabbits, rodents, cows, sheep and horses.
- Where can I purchase my pet's prescription and food?
You can enjoy the benefits of home delivery of your pet’s veterinarian-approved products and diets, as well as a wide range of non-prescription items via our online store.
- What are the fees associated with an urgent care visit?
A deposit payment is required for all urgent care examinations. Once the staff and doctors have examined your pet, an estimate for treatment will be given to you to determine a treatment plan.
If further hospitalization, diagnostics or surgery are required, a deposit is required upfront, with payment in full due when your pet is discharged.
- Can you help with my pet insurance?
We’re happy to help you fill out pet insurance forms for your furry friend’s visit.