Your First Visit: What to Expect
Welcome to Western Carolina Regional Animal Hospital & Veterinary Emergency Hospital! Here, you can learn what to expect with your pet's first appointment with our Flat Rock vets.
Step 1: When You Arrive
The day of your first appointment, please plan to arrive about 10 minutes early so that you can fill out a New Patient Form for your pet. You can also choose to fill this out online prior to your appointment.
Step 2: We Get to Know You
You and your pet will be introduced to your vet. Once in an examination room, we'll review your pet's medical history and habits and take a moment to discuss any goals you may have for your pet's care.
Please feel free to ask as many questions as you need to. We will be sure to take the time to answer and ensure you are comfortable with the care we will provide your pet.
Step 3: Full Exam
At this point, your veterinarian will perform a full 'nose-to-tail' exam. This will be a thorough assessment of your pet's skin, coat, eyes, ears, mouth, nose, legs, joints, abdomen, and anal sac.
Using a stethoscope, your vet will listen to your pet's heart and lungs. For older pets, blood tests to check kidney, liver, and internal organ function may be done as well.
Any vaccinations or lab work that your pet may be due for can also be taken care of at this appointment.
Office FAQs
- What types of pets do you treat?
At Western Carolina Regional Animal Hospital & Veterinary Emergency Hospital, our veterinary team is trained in the specific care required for cats and dogs.
- My cat is very nervous at the vet. What can I do?
At Western Carolina Regional Animal Hospital & Veterinary Emergency Hospital, we are certified as a Cat Friendly Practice®. This means that our veterinary staff is trained in ways to gently handle cats that reduce stress during visits, helping to make appointments easier for both cats and caregivers.
- Do I need to call ahead to book an appointment?
Yes, for all primary pet care visits, it is best to book an appointment ahead of time so we can be sure to have room in our schedule to see your pet.
If your pet needs emergency care, please call if possible or bring your pet in immediately. Our emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
- Do you have a cancellation policy for appointments?
Please call us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. This allows us to offer the space in our schedule to another patient.
While we don't have a cancellation penalty, we do ask that you try your best to respect the schedules of our veterinary team. Thank you!
- What are the payment options available to me?
Payment is due at the time of the appointment and can be made by cash, check, debit card or credit card.
- Do you offer financing options?
Yes, we are happy to accept CareCredit and Scratch Pay financing options.
- Where am I able to purchase the food and medications prescribed for my pet?
Any prescribed medications and specialty foods that your pet may need can be found in either our online store or our in-house pharmacy.
- How can I reorder prescriptions and food for my pet?
Refilling your prescriptions or specialty food purchases can be done through our online store, visiting our office, or calling us.
Please be sure to include the brand and bag size with all food orders.
Prescription refills will need the name, strength and quantity of the medication. Please note, your pet must be a current patient.
- Do you offer pet boarding services at your hospital?
While we do not offer daycare or overnight boarding services, we do provide medical boarding and hospitalization for pets for as long as required.