Your Pet's First Visit

A pet's first visit to the vet can seem a bit daunting, so we've put together a list of info and resources to help you prepare.

As a new client of our veterinary hospital, you can expect our full attention to your pet's needs. When you arrive for your appointment, you will be greeted warmly, and one of our client care specialists will usher you into an examination room after checking in your pet.

In most cases, one of our veterinarians will enter the room with one of our veterinary technicians and will start your appointment by gathering pertinent information about your pet. They will often be asking about your pet’s medical history, current condition, and the reason for your visit.​

Then, the veterinarian will examine your pet, ask further questions, and then may recommend diagnostic tests if needed. Once the tests have been run, many of which can conveniently be done in the hospital at the time of your visit, your veterinarian will discuss a possible diagnosis and treatment plan if warranted. This is a great time to ask questions! Our veterinary team wants to make sure you’re completely comfortable with the information we’re providing and that you will leave your appointment feeling well-informed and satisfied with your visit.

Our veterinary technician will likely come back to wrap things up by going over any medications prescribed to your pet as well as answer any other questions you might have thought of. Once finished, your technician will accompany you back to the front desk, where staff will process your payment and schedule any needed follow-up.

Before Your First Appointment
  1. Complete the New Client Form prior to your first visit.
  2. Assemble and be sure to bring all the proper items with you:
    • Your pet's adoption or purchase records
    • Any existing medical history
    • A list of current medications and supplements
    • Current feeding schedule and the brand of food you use
    • A list of questions you have for your veterinarian
  3. Collect any necessary stool or urine samples, if requested.
  4. If you're bringing in your dog, be sure he or she is accustomed to being on a short leash. If you're bringing a cat, be sure to have an appropriate carrier.
  5. Feel free to bring your pet's favorite treats to keep them happy and distracted!

Appointment Policies

​Please arrive 5 minutes prior to your pet's appointment for check-in. If you have not filled out all relevant patient forms yet, plan to arrive 10 minutes ahead of your appointment.

While we do our best to make sure all of our patients are seen on time, there will be times of occasional unexpected delay due to an emergency or because we are providing care for a patient that needs a little more time. Please accept our apologies should this occur, and understand that the same dedication and courtesy will be provided to your pet should they ever need it.

"This was our first visit to cedar crest for us and our new editions kitties. We found cedar crest staff, techs, and vet to be very pleasant, caring, and compassionate with our fur babies. We were impressed with the quality of service and the treatment toward us and the cats. Cedar crest will have us as their customer for our babies needs. Highly recommend and pricing was in line for services rendered. We also appreciated everyone being friendly and loving on our boys."

Denita J.

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