Dothan Animal Hospital - Other FAQ's

Q: What is our billing policy?

A: Payment is expected at the time of service.

Q: What forms of payment do we accept?

A: Cash and checks (with a valid drivers license), and all major credit cards. We also offer Care Credit, a charge card service .for qualified pet owners

Q: Is there anything I need to do prior to my appointment?

A: If you are a new client, please allow time after your arrival to fill out the necessary paperwork. You may also download the forms through our web site and bring with you. If your pet is going to have a surgical procedure on that day, please withhold food and water after midnight the night before unless instructed otherwise. Also, drop off times in the morning begin at 7:30 AM.

Q: Why is an annual physical exam important?

A: It is important to have an annual exam in order to detect preventable and/or treatable conditions before they become problematic as well as to update vaccinations.

Q: Does my pet need a multi-vitamin?

A: Vitamins can play an important role in the good health of your pet. Animals with certain medical conditions may benefit from various vitamins/supplements.

Q: What common food items should I avoid feeding my pet?

A: Some common toxic foods are grapes, onions, chocolate, raisins, mushrooms. An excellent listing can be found by visiting aspca.org.

Q: Why is it important to have my pet’s teeth cleaned regularly?

A: Like people, pets need regular dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. If not removed, this buildup can lead to gingival and periodontal disease and more serious health problems relating to the spread of infection from the mouth to other parts of the body.

Q: When should I have my dog or cat spayed or neutered?

A: Spaying or neutering for cats and dogs is recommended between 4-6 months of age. This seems to be the best time to prevent future reproductive organ related health problems such as uterine, ovarian, and mammary infections and cancers, prostatic disease and testicular disease and cancer. Neutering will help prevent a pet’s desire to roam (looking for a mate) and may also decrease aggressive tendencies, but will not change your pet in any other way.

Q: Does my pet have to be vaccinated?

A: Rabies vaccination of all dogs and cats, 3 months of age and older, is required by Alabama state law. Our hospital policy requires pets staying in the hospital (drop-off or long-time boarders) to be fully vaccinated. This includes vaccination for the other common contagious diseases of cats and dogs. If your pet has been vaccinated elsewhere, we will call that veterinarian for verification.

Q: How much is it going to cost to have my pet seen and treated?

A: Costs for treatment of your pet will vary, depending on the diagnosis. Because those costs vary, our receptionists are not able to provide a complete estimate. After examination of your pet, if needed, we will provide you with an estimate for diagnostics and treatment of your pet.​

Q: Is pre-anesthetic blood work necessary?

A: Even in young, apparently health pets, pre-anesthetic blood work allows us to screen your pet for hidden problems. Knowing about these problems before anesthesia allows us to take any corrective measures needed while your pet is under anesthesia, as well as follow-up with treatments needed after surgery.

Q: Why do refills of my pets medications require that I bring my pet for an examination?

A: Alabama state law does require a current doctor-client-patient relationship for the dispensing of medications. But more importantly is that we are able to monitor those medications in your pet and see that those medications are successfully treating your pet’s condition.

Q: What’s so wrong about purchasing my pet’s medications online?

A: There is nothing “wrong” or “bad” about purchasing on-line medications. Among our concerns include: 1. sometimes questionable sources of those medications, 2. expired products, and 3. manufacturer refusal to guarantee their product when not purchased through a veterinarian.

These and other concerns should raise red flags to pet owners about the products (and their sources) they are using with their pets.

Q: Should I have my pet micro-chipped?

A: Yes, if your pet becomes lost or stolen, the micro-chip may be scanned at any animal shelter or Humane Society. This information may be all it takes to bring your pet back home.