What to expect when your pet goes to hospital

Admission

Animals admitted through consults

You will be given a 24-hour estimate and a daily hospitalisation fee at admission. Please note that this is an estimate only, not a quote. For many cases, the extent of the treatment may not be fully known until diagnostic tests e.g.: blood tests, urine tests, X-rays, ultrasound, are performed. There are ongoing costs which may vary depending on the results of diagnostic procedures and the nature of the condition being treated.

Animals that have a booked procedure

  • You can allow your pet to have dinner the night before a procedure but it must be before midnight. They are required to be fasted (no food) from midnight onwards. Water is allowed. Rabbits and guinea pigs are different. They are not to be fasted and should have access to food and water at all times.
  • You will be given a cost estimate for the procedure. Please be aware the extent of the procedure may not be fully known until the animal is anaesthetised and the procedure has commenced.
  • Arrive 10 minutes prior to your booked appointment. The admission appointment can take 15 minutes. This is to allow our reception staff to ensure we have the correct contact details and for the admitting nurse to answer any questions you may have.
  • Ensure you are contactable throughout the day. We may need to contact you during your pet’s procedure or to get extra information. Make sure your contact details are current and include any emergency contacts. Keep your phone on and nearby.
  • Personal items. Despite our very best efforts, special items like toys and blankets can be misplaced in a busy hospital. We ask you to keep these at home.

Pet progress updates

You may see one vet for your visit however this vet is part of a team that works together to create the best treatment plan for your pet to achieve the best possible outcome. It is possible that you will speak with multiple vets during your pet’s stay.

We know you will be worried, but please do not call first thing in the morning. We need to ensure the vet has had a chance to fully examine your pet prior to discussing progress with you.

If there are any matters that require urgent discussion, the vet will contact you as needed. Otherwise you can expect a call or text after morning rounds, usually by 1pm.

Daily cost updates

In some cases, costs may vary if further investigation or treatment is required during your pet’s stay. We will provide you with account updates whilst your pet is in hospital and we encourage you to ask for account updates regularly. We kindly ask that you keep us informed of any impacting financial circumstances.

Visiting your pet

During COVID-19 restrictions we are regretfully unable to offer hospital visitations.