Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do to prepare my pet for surgery?

As routine surgery usually involves sedation or anaesthesia it is important that you not feed your pet for at least 6 hours before admission. This period of time may be too long for very young or geriatric pets so you should contact us to ask our advice for your particular pet. This is to minimise the risk of vomiting under anaesthesia.

What are anaesthetics and drugs you commonly use?

We use the safest anaesthetic drugs available, many the same as used in human hospitals, to do our best to ensure the safety of your pets when they are in our care. We also offer pre-anaesthetic blood testing to allow us to formulate a personalised anaesthetic plan for your pets.

How do you make diagnoses?

A diagnostic work up is in many ways like a crime scene investigation. We use our observational skills in the clinical exam and add laboratory testing, imaging (xrays, ultrasound etc) and other diagnostic tools to gather extra evidence then apply our knowledge and experience to pinpoint the most likely culprit.

I have an emergency – can I call after hours?

An after-hours emergency service is always available by phoning our emergency number 06 349 0486. This service is carried out at the Wanganui Veterinary Services practice on Somme Parade. The vet on call will be dependent on the roster, and may be staff from either clinic. Rest assured they will have access to your pets records so will be up to date on any current health conditions or medications your pet may be prescribed.

What are the costs for a consultation for my pet?

A consultation with one of our clinicians costs up to $69.00 [incl GST]. You will be able to outline your concerns while your vet examines your pet thoroughly and then recommends what is best for your pet. Please be aware that diagnostic and/or treatment procedures and medications are additional to this fee. It is part of our values system to always offer the best course of treatment first but to also offer choices (where applicable). We always try to explain the pros and cons of all your options and help you make the right choices for both you and your pet.

Do you accept payment plans?

We expect payment at the time of consultation and accept payment by EFTPOS, credit card and of course cash. A number of our clients have set up payment schedules to build their accounts in to credit. This can then be put towards consultations and services, but also food, retail and parasite control. Should you find yourself in credit you can have this refunded to you at any stage.

We encourage pet owners to take out Pet Health Insurance.