Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some general questions/answers that we are frequently asked.  For frequently asked questions about surgery check here.  If you have additional questions that aren't covered, please feel free to give us a call at 360-779-6534.

1. What are the Hospital hours?
  Our hospital is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00am to 6:00pm. On Wednesdays we are open from 8:00am to 8:00pm, but closed between 12:00pm and 2:00pm for staff training.  We are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and major holidays, but calling our number will still connect you with immediate help.

2.  Why aren't you open on Saturday? 
  We feel that the best care is given when strong interpersonal relationships are built over a long period of time.  We do not want to grow to become a large, multi-doctor practice supported by a large staff that does not recognize you when you walk in the door.  We want our entire staff to know you, your family and your pet as the unique individuals you are so we can be more responsive to your needs.  We offer evening appointments on Wednesday nights so you do not need to miss work for your pet's routine care.

3. Do I need to have an appointment?
    Yes, patients are seen by appointment to make sure the doctors have enough time to address your concerns.  Our receptionists are trained to schedule the doctor's time based on the concerns you share so be sure to give them as much information as possible when scheduling.  Ask about a "drop off" appointment, if your pet needs to be seen but your schedule conflicts with our available appointments.  A "drop off" means that you bring your pet at a time that works best for you in the morning and leave him/her with us for a few hours.  Once the doctor has completed her exam, she will call you to go over the findings and discuss a plan.

  Of course in the event of an emergency, we will see your pet immediately without an appointment.  Call and let us know you are coming, if possible.  If not, just come as quickly as you can.  One of our nurses will meet you in the parking lot to assess your pet's condition and you'll see the doctor as soon as possible based on the nurse's assessment.

  Please have your pet on a leash or in a carrier while on the premises.

4.  Why did I get a reminder for an "annual exam" when I was just in last month when he was limping?
  Annual/biannual exams are very important and very different from other types of exams.  During these exams, we look at the "big picture" of your pet's life.  While considering their age, breed and previous history, we look at your pet's lifestyle to suggest changes that you can make now to prevent problems later.  Problems that are developing, but are caught early have the best chance for successful treatment.  We can't identify problems early if we don't see your pet regularly.  Keep in mind that your buddy is aging at least 7 times faster than you are so even if we see them every year it is the equivalent of you going to the doctor once every 7 years.

  When you bring your pet in for a specific problem (ear infection, limping, wetting the bed, etc), we are only looking at how to address that specific problem. 

5. What forms of payment do you accept?  Can I make payments?
    Payment is expected at the time of service.  We accept cash, checks, VISA, Mastercard and CareCredit.  Once we have established a relationship with you, we will consider payment plans at our discretion to help you manage unexpected procedures.

6. Why do some of your procedures cost more than some other local practices?
All veterinary practices are not created equal.  There are no requirements that practices meet even "minimum" standards as they are not subject to government regulation as are human medical facilities.  There are no requirements that support staff be licensed or trained.  Medical supplies and drugs come from a variety of sources and vary in quality.  The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) was founded to set standards and visit practices to evaluate compliance, but participation is voluntary and most practices choose not to participate.

  Companion Animal Wellness Center is fully accredited by AAHA meaning that our procedures meet or exceed the highest standards in veterinary medicine.  Our technicians are licensed and all support staff participate in weekly training sessions.  We pay our staff a "living wage" and provide benefits, so their focus is on caring for your pet.  Our drugs and supplies are of the highest quality.  Our equipment is well maintained and regularly upgraded.  Our medical records are complete, legible and readily accessible.  We patronize other small local businesses whenever possible and support community events.  We care about you, our employees and our role in the community as well as your pet.

  Practices offering bargain basement prices can only do so by cutting corners behind the scenes.  At Companion Animal Wellness Center we don't cut corners that compromise the quality of care your furry family members receive.  We work with you to develop a plan that provides high quality care that fits your life's constraints and your budget.

7. Do you board pets?
   We do not board pets as the needs of boarding pets vary significantly from caring for pets who are ill.  At Companion Animal Wellness Center, we focus exclusively on educating you so that together we can care for your friend's health care needs.  Our goal is to maximize the number of happy, healthy years you spend together.