Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which vaccines or treatments my pet needs?
Every pet is unique, so our veterinarians tailor vaccine schedules and care plans based on your pet’s lifestyle, age, health, and risks in the Staten Island area. We’ll walk you through each recommendation and why it matters.
How do I refill my pet’s medications?
Our in-house pharmacy makes medication refills easy and convenient. Simply call or email us, and we’ll prepare what you need so your pet’s care continues without delay. We also partner with Vetsource, our trusted online pharmacy, where established patients can order medications directly for home delivery.
What end-of-life care do you provide?
We offer compassionate hospice support, quality-of-life guidance, pain management, and peaceful euthanasia services in our clinic or in your home. Our team walks with families through every step with care and dignity.
Do you offer house call services?
We do for established patients. House calls are offered for wellness care, vaccines, and end-of-life support when availability allows, as same-day appointments may not always be possible due to our schedule. At-home euthanasia is also available for non-established clients to support pets who are more comfortable at home.
Do you offer diagnostic services at your hospital?
Yes. Our in-house laboratory, digital X-rays, and ultrasound allow us to quickly evaluate your pet’s health and provide fast answers. We also partner with board-certified radiologists for advanced imaging review when needed. In addition, we work closely with an external laboratory, giving us access to more advanced diagnostic testing when required.
What urgent care situations can you treat?
We commonly see non–life-threatening concerns such as vomiting, diarrhea, limping, ear infections, minor wounds, allergic reactions, and appetite changes. Most urgent cases can be evaluated the same day.
What should I do if my pet is experiencing an emergency?
During our business hours, call us immediately so we can advise you and prepare for your arrival. If we are closed and the situation is life-threatening, head directly to Greater Staten Island Veterinary Services, a 24/7 emergency hospital.
Is your team trained in Fear Free techniques?
Yes. Many members of our team are Fear Free Certified, meaning we use gentle handling, treats, calming strategies, and thoughtful exam-room design to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress during visits.
What types of surgeries do you offer?
We provide a wide range of soft tissue surgeries, emergency procedures, dental surgeries, and spay/neuter services. Specialized surgeries are also available on-site through a board-certified veterinary surgeon.
Do you perform spay and neuter surgeries, and what are the benefits?
We do. Spaying and neutering help prevent certain cancers, reduce behavioral issues, and support pet overpopulation efforts in the community. We proudly accept Friends of Animals certificates for these services.
Are dental cleanings done under anesthesia?
Yes. For your pet’s safety and comfort, all professional dental cleanings are performed under anesthesia with continuous monitoring. This allows our team to clean thoroughly above and below the gumline and take dental X-rays.
What are some signs that my pet may need dental care?
Common signs include bad breath, difficulty eating, red or swollen gums, drooling, or changes in behavior. Since dental disease often hides below the gumline, our team uses dental X-rays to catch problems early and keep your pet comfortable.
Do you offer preventive care like vaccines and parasite protection?
Yes. We provide personalized vaccine schedules, year-round parasite prevention, and routine screening to keep your pet healthy and protected from common Staten Island risks such as heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites.
How often should my pet have a wellness exam?
Wellness exams are recommended yearly for healthy adult pets and every 6 months for seniors. Puppies and kittens need more frequent visits—every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age—to build a strong foundation of preventive care.
What can I expect during my pet’s first visit?
During your first visit, our team will welcome you into a calm exam room where most care is provided. We’ll discuss your pet’s history, perform a gentle physical exam, and give you plenty of time to ask questions. We also offer designated entrances for anxious or reactive pets to help reduce stress.
