Your Dog’s Appointment at MISCA

WHAT TO EXPECT

Your dog’s consultation with the veterinary specialists at MISCA begins before you step into our hospital.  A specialized referral coordinator will gather information from you and your pet’s medical records.  Please provide a thorough list of all veterinary service providers that have seen your pet, not just your pet’s referring doctor.  This will allow our team to make sure that a consultation at MISCA is appropriate for your pet, that your pet sees the right specialist and that your pet’s specialist is well informed of the medical history. 

ONCE YOUR APPOINTMENT IS BOOKED

A referral coordinator will gather all pertinent records from your pet’s medical history, including information on past procedures and results of previous diagnostic tests.  Your dog’s specialist will be familiar with this information which will allow the consultation to be more efficient and informative.

We request that you fill out our new client form prior to your appointment to help expedite your check in process. These forms can be found under the client section of our website.

PREPARATION PRIOR TO YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Withhold food the morning of the appointment. If your pet is taking insulin or is suspected to have an insulinoma, please call prior to your visit for specific instructions. Water can be provided at all times.
• Bring your dog in a carrier or on a secure 6’ leash.
• If your dog experiences severe anxiety prior to veterinary visits, ask your family veterinarian about premedication with an anti-anxiety drug.

WHAT TO BRING TO YOUR APPOINTMENT

• All medications that your dog is currently receiving
• A list of any allergies or sensitivities to medications or foods
• Any pertinent medical records
• A list of questions you may have about your dog’s condition

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE

• You may call the clinic from your car or come into the lobby to check in for your dog’s appointment.  When you arrive, you and your dog will be ushered to a private examination room.  
• Your specialty veterinarian(s) will examine your pet.  
• Common diagnostic procedures performed at MISCA include blood and urine analyses, x-rays and ultrasound.  A thorough diagnostic plan will be discussed with you prior to any workup.  
• Your dog may be taken into MISCA’s treatment area for gentle restraint and the described work-up.  A sedative may be recommended to assist with restraint and comfort of your dog.
• Procedures are not typically performed the same day as the appointment to allow proper evaluation and preparation for the procedure.  If you are ready, you may schedule your pet’s procedure before you leave.  

ANESTHESIA AND MONITORING

Your dog may be placed under safe anesthesia during his or her treatment. For more information about anesthesia and monitoring at MISCA, please visit our anesthesia and monitoring page.