On your first visit, it is important to bring all relevant medical materials for review. Your regular veterinarian will provide you with a copy of your pet's record. They will also give you your pet's X-rays and other materials for us to look at. All of these materials will be returned to your regular veterinarian.

When you make your appointment or when you arrive for your first visit, you will be asked to fill out a client/patient information form. During the first visit, a detailed medical history will be obtained by asking you questions, a thorough physical examination will be performed, and previous records reviewed. Any additional diagnostic testing that may be required will be discussed with you, and is typically performed during the same visit. An echocardiogram is usually performed. At the conclusion of your visit, we will have a thorough discussion of your pet's diagnosis. You will be told what the problem is, the severity of the condition, what typically happens for each scenario, and an appropriate treatment plan. Questions will be answered, and appropriate recheck examinations arranged. Handouts about specific diagnoses are also given for you to review at home. An initial office call lasts about an hour, and rechecks take about 30 minutes. A detailed report will be sent to your regular veterinarian, so that they have a complete record of our visit, and may remain involved in the care of your pet. Costs of diagnostics performed are discussed with you before performing them.