What is included in my pet's first exam?

Your pet’s first visit includes a complete physical examination, review of medical history, and discussion of lifestyle, nutrition, behavior, and preventive care. Our veterinarians use this information to establish a health baseline and develop a personalized wellness plan for every life stage.

Do you provide emergency or after-hours care?

We provide urgent and same-day care during our regular hours and are open seven days a week. If your pet needs treatment outside business hours, our team will guide you to a nearby emergency veterinary hospital for immediate care.

What kinds of veterinary services do you offer?

We are a full-service veterinary hospital offering wellness and preventive care, vaccinations, dentistry, surgery, spay and neuter procedures, in-house diagnostics, ultrasound and echocardiography, and urgent care for illnesses and injuries.

Do you offer walk-in or same-day appointments?

We recommend scheduling appointments online or by phone, but we make every effort to accommodate urgent needs. Same-day visits are often available depending on our schedule, and our team works to fit your pet in whenever possible.

Can I schedule an appointment with a specific vet?

Yes, you may request a specific veterinarian when booking your appointment. We will do our best to accommodate your preference based on availability, and all of our doctors provide attentive and compassionate care.

What can I expect during my pet’s first visit?

During the first visit, our team gathers your pet’s medical history, performs a thorough exam, and discusses preventive care, vaccinations, and long-term health goals so you leave with a clear understanding of your pet’s care plan.

Do you offer spays/neuters?

Yes, we perform spay and neuter surgeries as part of our surgical services. These procedures help prevent certain health conditions and unwanted litters, and our team provides preparation and recovery guidance before scheduling.

Where are you located?

We are located at 130 La Casa Via, Suite 103A, Walnut Creek, CA 94598, serving pets and families throughout Walnut Creek and surrounding communities.

Why should I schedule a wellness exam for my pet?

Routine wellness visits allow veterinarians to monitor health, update vaccinations, and detect concerns early. Preventive care helps your pet remain comfortable and active while allowing us to adjust recommendations as your pet ages.

What should I do if my pet shows sudden changes in behavior or appetite?

Sudden changes may indicate illness or discomfort. Contact our hospital promptly to schedule an evaluation so our veterinarians can assess your pet and recommend appropriate diagnostics or treatment.

Are there side effects to the pain medications my pet might be prescribed?

Some medications may cause mild side effects depending on dosage and your pet’s health. We carefully select medications, monitor response, and provide clear home-care instructions so you know what to watch for.

Why should I choose Animal Care Hospital of Walnut Creek over other clinics for pain management?

We emphasize personalized and compassionate care. Our team evaluates your pet’s specific needs and combines modern diagnostics, treatments, and monitoring to manage discomfort effectively and support recovery.

Are ultrasounds safe for my pet?

Yes. Ultrasound is a safe, painless diagnostic method that uses sound waves to evaluate organs and soft tissues and helps identify internal conditions without invasive procedures.

Can diagnostic imaging detect cancer early in pets?

Diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound and other advanced tests, can reveal abnormal growths and organ changes early, allowing quicker treatment decisions and improved outcomes.

What should I expect during my pet’s early veterinary visits?

Puppies and kittens receive wellness exams, vaccinations, and guidance on nutrition, behavior, and development. These visits help establish healthy routines and proper growth.

How can I safely introduce a new kitten to a multi-cat household?

Begin by keeping the kitten in a separate room, allow scent exchange, then supervised visual introductions. Gradually increase interaction while monitoring behavior to reduce stress.

Can dental disease affect my pet’s behavior?

Yes. Oral discomfort can cause irritability, reduced appetite, and reluctance to chew. Dental treatment often improves comfort and behavior.

How can I maintain my pet’s dental health at home?

Regular brushing is ideal, but dental diets, treats, and toys can also help reduce plaque. Routine professional cleanings at our hospital are important for long-term oral health.

How long does it take for pets to recover from surgery?

Recovery depends on the procedure and your pet’s condition. Minor procedures may heal within days, while more involved surgeries take longer. We provide detailed aftercare and follow-up recommendations.

How do I schedule a surgical consultation at Animal Care Hospital of Walnut Creek?

You can call our office or schedule online. The veterinarian will examine your pet, discuss concerns, and determine whether surgery or another treatment option is appropriate.

When is my pet considered a senior?

Many dogs are considered seniors around 7 years of age, while cats typically reach senior status closer to 9 years. Senior pets benefit from increased monitoring and preventive screenings.

How often should senior pets see the veterinarian?

Senior pets should be examined at least twice a year. Regular visits help detect age-related conditions early and allow adjustments to diet, medication, and lifestyle for comfort and quality of life.

Do you serve pets in Concord, Pleasant Hill, Oakland, and Martinez?

Yes, Animal Care Hospital of Walnut Creek welcomes patients from Walnut Creek as well as nearby communities including Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Oakland, and Martinez. We are conveniently located at 130 La Casa Via Suite 103A, Walnut Creek, CA 94598 and are currently accepting new patients. To get started, call (925) 433-5900 or book an appointment online.

Shawn | Animal Care Hospital of Walnut Creek

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By Animal Care Hospital of Walnut Creek | March 11, 2024

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Kennel Assistant

Shawn has always had a love for all animals and is grateful to be finally working in the industry. He currently attends Las Lomas High School and aspires to obtain a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree in small animal medicine in the future.

Outside of work, Shawn is a competitive swimmer, enjoying staying active and challenging himself in the water. He also has a passion for jazz music, often spending his free time listening to or playing his favorite charts with the Big Band of Rossmoor.