What to Expect at a Veterinary Appointment
Knowing what to expect at your first appointment will help make the process more pleasant for both you and your pet.
Check In Process
Please arrive 5mins early. Upon arrival you can call or text to check your pet in. You will be asked a series of COVID-screening questions - to ensure the safety of our patients and staff we reserve the right to change any appointment to curb side if we deem it necessary.
Meet The Team
A veterinary assistant will collect patient history via phone (please remain in your vehicle during this process). Any questions, concerns or specific topics you would like addressed can be communicated to the assistant during this time.
After collecting patient history the assistant will come escort you into the building. Please note that masks are required upon entry to the hospital and during any interaction with members of our staff.
Examination, Diagnosis & Treatment
After your visit, we will create a detailed report of our diagnosis, the discussion we had with you, and your pet's treatment plan. We will keep this information on hand for when you need it.
Once your pet is ready to be dismissed you will be provided with an itemized invoice and QR code that can be scanned into your phone and will take you directly to our secure online payment portal.
Our Pet Care Philosophy
We proudly serve pet owners in Capitola. We are dedicated to providing up-to-date veterinary service to you and your pet with care and compassion.
We are passionate about preventive care, owner education, and providing comprehensive urgent care to Capitola pets.
Hospital FAQs
Learn more about our office policies, payment options, and appointment booking by reading through our hospital FAQs.
- What types of payment options are available?
Payment in full is expected at the time services are provided or upon discharge of your pet. We accept payment by cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
- Are there payment plans available for my pet’s care?
We are proud to offer CareCredit as a financing option. They offer an easy application process that will give you results in minutes. WE also offer SCVH secure online payment.
- Will I be provided with an estimate of costs?
We will provide an estimate of the cost of our services prior to treating your pet. However, unforeseen circumstances or complications may arise that impact your final bill.
We will always discuss our written estimate with our clients before they leave our facility, and require a deposit based on our estimate prior to any further treatment.
- Should I call ahead to book an appointment?
Yes, please call ahead to book an appointment to ensure we have room in our schedule to see your pet.
Kindly allow up to 24hrs after your form is submitted for one of our client service representatives to reach out with the next available appointment.
In the event that your pet needs emergency care during our regular business hours, please contact us right away.
- What is your appointment cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can offer the space in our schedule to other clients.
- What types of animals do you treat?
We take care of Capitola dogs and cats.
- Where can I purchase my pet's prescription and food?
You can purchase all the medications and specialty food your pet needs either via our online store or our in-house pharmacy.
- What are the fees associated with a specialty appointment?
You are financially responsible for the initial examination fee and any diagnostics or treatment that you consent to for your pet’s treatment. This payment is due at the time of service.
For further hospitalization, diagnostics, or surgery, a deposit is required upfront with payment due in full when your pet is discharged.
- What are the fees associated with an emergency visit?
A deposit payment is required for all emergency examinations. Once the staff and doctors have examined your pet, an estimate for treatment will be given to you to determine a treatment plan.
If further hospitalization, diagnostics or surgery are required, a deposit is required upfront, with payment in full due when your pet is discharged.
- Can you help with my pet insurance?
We’re happy to help you fill out pet insurance forms for your pet’s visit.
Pet Owner Resources
Here are some helpful links for your pet's health.
New Patients Welcome
Santa Cruz Veterinary Hospital is accepting new patients! Our experienced vets are passionate about the health of Capitola companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.