Regular dental cleanings are important in the prevention of periodontal disease, the leading cause of tooth loss in dogs and cats.

Yearly examinations are an important part of preventive health care. Since the life span of a dog or cat is only a fraction of our own, one year is a long time for your pet. Early detection of disease provides the best opportunity for successful therapy.

During a well-pet visit, a physical examination is performed, evaluating the eyes, ears, haircoat, and teeth. The veterinarian will also check your pet's abdomen to detect abnormal masses or organ size within the abdominal cavity. Auscultation with a stethoscope allows evaluation of the heart and lungs.

Vaccinations and internal parasite checks are usually performed a the well-pet visit, and if your pet is older, the veterinarian may recommend further diagnostic testing to ensure his or her health and/or detect the early signs of certain diseases.

At Heekin Animal Hospital, we have the capability to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. Many laboratory tests are run here inside the hospital to give the veterinarian ready access to important diagnostic information. Private commercial labs give us the ability to perform hundreds of additional tests when the necessity arises. Radiology (x-ray) is also available on-site, which often can be invaluable in diagnosing certain conditions.

Surgery patients are given the utmost care and attention. Anesthetic drugs are selected with the patient's age, physical condition, and type of surgery in mind. Animals are closely monitored during surgical procedures with the use of a cardiac monitor, as well as a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen concentrations in the blood. A circulating warm-water mattress is used to prevent chilling. Particular attention is given to pain control in the post-operative period. A registered veterinary technician works closely with the patient and veterinarian to assure the pet's safety and comfort at all times.

Regular dental cleanings are important in the prevention of periodontal disease, the leading cause of tooth loss in dogs and cats. Our dental prophylaxis (preventative tooth cleaning) includes ultrasonic scaling of the tooth surfaces, inspection of the gums for inflammation and/or pockets of periodontal disease, and polishing of the teeth. We are also equipped to perform routine and surgical tooth extractions when necessary.

We offer evening appointments every Tuesday until 8:00.

You can leave your pet with us before going to work, and pick him up later in the day.

Payment is due at the time of service. We accept cash, checks, Visa, and Mastercard. If your pet is admitted to the hospital, you will be asked to leave a deposit. Your doctor will discuss this when reviewing the cost estimate. The remaining balance is due at the time of discharge from the hospital.

For amounts over $300, we offer a payment plan administered by CareCredit. This service requires you to fill out a credit application and provide a valid, current state ID. If approved, no interest is charged to your account if the total amount is paid within ninety days. The application and approval process takes about 20 minutes. CareCredit reserves the right to decline applications, and Heekin Animal Hospital has no influence in their decisions. For more information, ask a receptionist for details or e-mail us at info@Heekinanimalhospital.com.

For your pet's safety while at Heekin Animal Hospital, we ask that all dogs be leashed and all cats be kept in a carrier.
If your pet has a tendency toward aggression or nervousness, please advise a receptionist when you arrive at the hospital. A simple notation on your pet's medical record can often prevent a problem situation.
If another veterinarian has seen your pet, it is very helpful to our veterinarian and staff if you bring a copy of your pet's prior medical history.
Before your visit, you can download the patient registration form, and fax or e-mail it back so we can have a record prepared. If you cannot do this, please plan to arrive a few minutes early to complete the necessary paperwork.
Make a list of questions you would like to ask, and bring it with you. This helps ensure that all of your concerns are addressed.
Any questions? Please ask! We're here to help.