Care FAQ
What is a Veterinarian Client Patient Relationship (VCPR)?
A VCPR is the process of establishing a formal relationship with a veterinary healthcare facility and is legally required for the administration of vaccines, surgery, dental procedures, prescription drugs, etc. A VCPR is established through an annual examination with a WCAH veterinarian.
Are you seeing new clients?
We are always taking new clients but for healthy or annual exams we typically schedule about 2 weeks out.
Can I schedule an appointment for just vaccines?
Yes, an appointment for just vaccines is available to patients that have an established veterinarian client patient relationship (VCPR). If a VCPR has not been established, an appointment with a doctor is required before vaccines can be administered.
Do you accept emergencies or take walk-in appointments?
We are by appointment only. True emergencies should go to the nearest 24-hour ER hospital. We do our best to accommodate urgent visits. Please call the hospital prior to coming in.
What vaccines does my puppy need?
Simple question but a complex answer. The vaccines recommended for your puppy are based on the AAHA Vaccine Guidelines and a lifestyle/risk assessment as offered by our veterinarians at your puppy’s first visit.
Why do I need an exam with a doctor?
A veterinarian client patient relationship (VCPR) is legally required to access most services available at West Coast Animal Hospital. Only a doctor can diagnose medical conditions and recommend a delivery of care plan.
Can I get a Health Certificate for my dog/cat?
We do not offer international health certificates. We will see pets for health certificates traveling within the United States. We do ask owners to do some research about health certificates and the airline they are flying prior to booking the appointment.
Do you board pets?
We do not board dogs. We only board cats for medical purposes that cannot be boarded elsewhere.
Does your hospital offer dentals or teeth cleanings?
Yes. Dental procedures, including teeth cleanings, are a full anesthetic procedure regardless of extractions, cleanings, or dental radiographs. A consultation with one of our veterinarians is required in order to book a dental procedure.
Do you accept most pet insurances?
Pet insurance works a little differently than human medicine. Regardless of insurance company we will fill out diagnosis and provide copies of invoices as needed. Owners are required to submit the invoices/paperwork themselves. Reimbursement from your insurance company depends on individual plans.
Do you see any exotic animals? IE: Guinea pigs, lizards, birds.
We do not see exotics; we are only equipped to treat dogs and cats.
Does your practice offer any specialists? IE: Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgeries.
We do work with mobile specialists for a variety of reasons such as cardiologists who perform echocardiograms, internal medicine vets who perform ultrasounds, and board-certified surgeons. An exam with one of our doctors is required prior to booking any specialist to ensure we are providing the correct service for your pet.
Do you perform grooming services?
We do not offer grooming but we will perform nail trims and anal gland expressions for existing clients.
Price List FAQ
Why do you have a late cancel / no show fee?
Minimizing wait times is part of a broader effort of providing the best possible experience to clients. This is accomplished through our policy of not double-booking exams. When clients do not show up for their appointment, it creates a gap in the schedule. The fee partially pays the wages of the doctor and two nurses who were impacted by the no show.
Do you have any payment plans?
Financing options are available through third party services such as Care Credit (invoice must exceed $500) and Scratch Pay.