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Hospital Policies

Thank you for taking the time to review our hospital policies. These guidelines are designed to ensure the best possible care for your pets and ensure a respectful, supportive environment for everyone. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

Active Patient–Client Policy

In accordance with the Veterinarians Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. V.3), veterinary care — including the prescribing or dispensing of medications — requires an active Veterinary-Patient-Client Relationship (VPCR).

To maintain this relationship, your pet must be examined by one of our veterinarians at least once every 12 months.

Emergency Care Policy

While we are not a designated emergency facility, we reserve a limited number of same-day and urgent care appointments during regular business hours. These are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

If we are fully booked, we will refer you to a trusted local emergency hospital for immediate care.

Fear-Free Environment Policy

We are committed to creating a calm, stress-reduced environment for every pet. Many of our staff are Fear Free Certified, and we use gentle handling methods to make visits as positive as possible — supporting both physical and emotional wellness.

Missed Appointment & Cancellation Policy

We kindly ask for 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the time slot to another patient in need.

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Late cancellations or missed appointments will incur a $50 + tax fee.

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After three no-shows or late cancellations, prepayment will be required for future bookings.

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Prepayments become non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment.

an ambulance truck with a cross on it

Late cancellations or missed appointments will incur a $50 + tax fee.

an icon of a building with a cross on it

After three no-shows or late cancellations, prepayment will be required for future bookings.

an icon of two hands holding a cross

Prepayments become non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment.

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Surgical Booking Deposit Policy

To secure a surgical appointment, a deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit is applied toward the final balance on the day of the procedure.

  • Standard procedures require 7 days’ notice to cancel or reschedule without forfeiting the deposit.
  • Specialist surgeries require 14 days’ notice.
  • Cancellations or changes within these timeframes result in the deposit being non-refundable.

Respectful Conduct Policy

We expect all interactions at our hospital to be rooted in mutual respect and professionalism.

  • Any abuse, aggression, or inappropriate behaviour toward staff or others will not be tolerated.
  • Our team is equally committed to treating all clients and pets with courtesy and care.
We reserve the right to decline service to individuals engaging in harmful or discriminatory conduct.
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Third-Party & Online Pharmacy Policy

Clients may request written prescriptions to be filled at a pharmacy of their choice. However, acceptance of these prescriptions is at the discretion of the pharmacy.

Please note: online pharmacies are not regulated by the College of Veterinarians of Ontario and may pose risks. We encourage reviewing Health Canada’s guidelines before purchasing medications online.

A service fee applies for all written prescription requests.

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Patient Arrival Policy

For everyone’s safety, all pets must arrive:
  • On a secure leash or
  • In a carrier
We recommend standard leashes over retractable ones for dogs, as they allow better control in shared spaces.

Payment Policy

All services must be paid in full at the time they are provided.
We accept:
  • Debit
  • VISA
  • Mastercard
  • E-transfer
  • Limited cash transactions

For clients seeking financial assistance, we offer third-party financing through Scratchpay or PetCard.

For surgical or dental procedures, we provide detailed treatment plans in advance and are happy to prepare preventive care estimates upon request.

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Pet Insurance Policy

We are happy to assist clients who have pet insurance, regardless of provider.

However, it is the policyholder’s responsibility to contact their insurer for coverage details and claim updates, as we are unable to communicate directly with insurance companies.

Prescription Refill Policy

Refill requests may be submitted by phone or email. Please allow:

  • 24 hours for standard refills
  • 5 business days for compounded medications
You will receive a text notification once your prescription is ready.

Please note: medications not picked up within 30 days will be returned to inventory, and a restocking fee may apply.

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