South Arundel Vet - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request a refill on my pet's prescription?

Please allow 24 hours when requesting a prescription refill. If there are refills indicated on the medication's label, simply contact us and request a refill. A pharmacy technician will call you when the medication is ready for pick up. If there are no refills indicated on the label, we will give your pet's medical file to your veterinarian for approval. Please be aware that in some circumstances the veterinarian may require an exam prior to dispensing the medication.

If you are filling or refilling a medication through an online or mail order pharmacy, please note you will need to obtain a written prescription from your veterinarian and submit this to the pharmacy of your choice. We will not authorize any prescriptions with online or mail order pharmacies by phone or fax.

If you are refilling an order you had placed with our online pharmacy, simply log into your account and place your refill order.

Why am I asked to fill out a Comprehensive Medical History form each time my pet is seen?

This form serves a dual purpose - it lets us know if your contact information has changed and it gives the doctor valuable information concerning your pet's state of health since the last visit. The questions are designed to trigger additional information that you may not have considered relevant to your pet's visit, but can serve to create a better overall picture of your pet's health. We do not ask that you fill out this form if your pet has been examined by one of our doctors in the 30 days prior to your visit.

Do you offer payment plans?

Payment is due at the time services are rendered. We accept cash, checks, Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express and Care Credit as forms of payment.

We realize the cost of pet care can sometimes be overwhelming; there are options to consider before your pet becomes ill. Care Credit can provide a line of credit available for you to use at any time in the treatment of your pet. You can apply online for Care Credit. We can also process an application via phone for you in the hospital; both methods will give you an immediate decision.

Pet health insurance is another option to consider before your pet becomes ill. VPI pet insurance has different levels of coverage and can be applied for directly online.

Do you make house calls?

We can arrange for one of our veterinarians to make a house call. Please contact us and we will work with you to arrange a time for a home visit.

Is pre-operative testing optional for my pet?

As with humans, pre-operative testing is not optional for your pet. Your veterinarian wants to be sure that all signs indicate your pet's heart, liver and kidney functions will allow them to undergo anesthesia and the surgical procedure with an outlook for optimum success.

Why does my pet need to repeat blood work testing for certain medications?

Your pet's successful therapy depends on monitoring. This ensures that the medications are working as intended and that any possible side effects are being noted. You are your pet's health care advocate. Closely following your veterinarian's dosing instructions, immediately reporting any changes in your pet's attitude or appearance and adhering to the recommended lab testing schedule will ensure your pet is receiving the maximum benefit from therapeutic drug treatment.

Do you price match medications?

We do not price match. If you wish to purchase medication eslewhere, such as an online or catalog pharmacy, submit your request to us and your pet's veterinarian will give you a written prescription which you can have filled at the pharmacy of your choice. We do not give phone or fax approval for prescription orders submitted directly to a pharmacy. You must obtain the written prescription first. Please allow a 24-hour turn around time when submitting your request.

Do you offer grooming or bathing services?

We have a groomer on premises and our veterinary assistants provide bathing services for pets. Your pet must be current on vaccinations and have had an examination by one of our veterinarians within the past year in order to book an appointment. Dogs must be current on the rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella vaccines and cats must be current on the rabies and distemper vaccines.

Do you board pets?

We offer boarding for dogs, cats and exotics. Please see our boarding page for details.

Can you treat injured wildlife?

We are not licensed to treat wildlife. We recommend that you contact the Davidsonville Wildlife Sanctuary at 410-798-0193.

Does my pet need to be licensed?

All dogs and cats residing in Anne Arundel county are required to be licensed and have proof of rabies vaccination. The license application form can be obtained here in the hospital or directly online.