What to Expect

puppy1.png In your search for a veterinary facility, we believe you should expect high quality care as well as great service. Our goal has been to assemble a veterinary health care team committed to providing exceptional client service and veterinary health care. Our commitment to you is to continue to offer our world class service and quality care.

Your pet's annual vet check-up will include a total physical exam, with a thorough investigation of your pet's head, body and tail, and all his assorted cavities. 

Because even the most cooperative pet may not readily go-along with a tooth and gum brushing, an annual dental cleaning by your veterinarian maybe in order. Like you, your pet can lose his teeth due to decay and neglect. 

It's a good idea to keep an accurate medical diary not only of the procedures and vaccinations your pet receives at the vet, but also of notes on things like your pet's elimination habits and any physical changes or unusual occurrences. Keep track of small shifts in your pet's behavior, including urinary marking habits and mood swings, along with diet and routine modifications. Take this notebook when you visit the vet. These seemingly unrelated occurrences may help explain results of your pet's medical tests. Also, if you need to change vets, it's good to have this journal to provide a complete medical history.

Choose a veterinarian who is calm, compassionate and willing to explain all the procedures your pet undergoes. Try to find a vet with whom both you and your pet feel comfortable. Try to have it convenient, choose a clinic with qualified staff and facilities to undertake surgery and perform procedures requiring anesthesia, such as teeth cleaning. 

Because of the general risks inherent to anesthesia, especially for very old, very young or very ill pets, we will likely suggest a few exams, including a chest X-ray and lab work of blood and urine, before your pet is anesthetized.  During the procedure your pet will receive IV fluids and will have constant monitoring of vital signs. All pets also receive nausea care and pain management.

Dr. Holly Smith may refer you to a specialist, veterinarians who have completed advanced studies in specialties such as internal medicine, surgery, and emergency care, if your pet must undergo a procedure that requires more precise knowledge and experience.


Covid 19 Protocol:

At this time, we are welcoming all clients into the clinic with their pet.  If you would like to continue staying curbside for your appointment, let us know and we will schedule a drop-off appointment.  

As is true for most area clinics, we have had a large increase in appointment requests.  We are doing our very best to accommodate every pet.

Our goal is to enforce social distancing, keep our small staff and our clients safe, while providing quality care with excellent communication.  

We are constantly monitoring the Covid counts and the CDC recommendations and will adjust our protocol accordingly. 

See our FAQ page to get to know us better https://www.smithvillevet.com/...