What to Expect at Your First Visit
We’re so glad you’re here. At Brookeside Veterinary Hospital, we’re always happy to welcome new patients and pet parents into our care. Our goal is to make your first visit easy, welcoming, and tailored to your pet’s needs. Whether you're coming in for a wellness check or a more in-depth concern, our team is here to help your pet feel safe and supported from the moment you walk in.
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To save time at check-in, we encourage you to complete your new client forms ahead of your visit.
What to Bring to Your Pet’s First Visit
To help us provide the best care and keep your visit running smoothly, we recommend gathering a few key details before your appointment. This information helps our team get to know your pet’s history and needs from the start.
Please bring the following:
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Veterinary records – including vaccine history, recent lab work, and any prior diagnoses
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Current medications or supplements – with dosage and instructions
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Details on your pet’s diet – including food, treats, or anything homemade
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Fecal sample – if requested during scheduling (ideally within 24 hours of your visit)
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Notes on any behavioral or health concerns, such as limping, scratching, or appetite changes
We also recommend arriving with your pet in a secure carrier or on a leash to ensure their safety and comfort during check-in.
Does Your Pet Get Nervous at the Vet? Let Us Know.
If your pet tends to feel anxious, fearful, or stressed during vet visits, please don’t hesitate to tell us when scheduling. Our team is trained in gentle, low-stress handling techniques, and we’ll do everything we can to create a calm, supportive experience.
Whether that means extra time, a quieter room, or bringing your pet in through a side entrance, we’re here to help make their visit as smooth and positive as possible.
Payment Options and Insurance
We want veterinary care to feel accessible, transparent, and manageable, especially when it matters most. At Brookeside, we’re happy to walk you through your options and answer any billing questions during your visit.
We accept:​
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Credit and debit cards
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Cash payments
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Most pet insurance plans (please bring your policy details to your visit)
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Third-party financing, such as CareCredit
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If you have questions about costs, estimates, or insurance paperwork, feel free to call ahead or ask our team at check-in. We’re here to help.
Frequent Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment, or do you accept walk-ins?
We recommend scheduling an appointment to ensure we have time set aside for your pet. While we may be able to accommodate urgent needs, calling ahead is the best way to avoid wait times.
Can I stay with my pet during the exam?
In most cases, yes. We welcome your involvement and want you to feel confident in your pet’s care. For certain procedures or safety reasons, our team may guide you through other options.
How early should I arrive for my first visit?
We suggest arriving 10 minutes early so you have time to get settled, especially if you haven’t filled out your new client forms ahead of time.
Can I bring more than one pet to the same appointment?
Yes—just let us know when scheduling so we can set aside enough time to give each pet the care and attention they deserve.
What if I’m running late?
Please call us if you're running behind, we’ll do our best to adjust or reschedule if needed.
What happens after my pet’s first visit?
After your appointment, our team will follow up with any test results or next steps discussed during the visit. We’re always here if you have questions or need to schedule follow-up care. You’ll also be added to our reminder system to help you stay on track with future visits and vaccines.