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Your Pet's First Visit

A pet's first visit to the vet can seem a bit daunting, so we've put together a list of info and resources to help you prepare. 

At your first appointment, we will gather information about your pet’s background, health, diet, and training. We can also address any questions or concerns you might have.

Your veterinarian will examine your pet from nose-to-tail, looking for things like heart murmurs, ear infections, and/or parasites. Your vet can also provide pet-proofing tips, training assistance, and parasite protection recommendations. 

Before Your First Appointment
  1. Complete the New Client Form prior to your first visit.
  2. Assemble and be sure to bring all the proper items with you:
    • Your pet's adoption or purchase records
    • Any existing medical history
    • A list of current medications and supplements
    • Current feeding schedule and the brand of food you use
    • A list of questions you have for your veterinarian
  3. Collect any necessary stool or urine samples, if requested.
  4. If you're bringing in your dog, be sure he or she is accustomed to being on a short leash. If you're bringing a cat, be sure to have an appropriate carrier.
  5. Feel free to bring your pet's favorite treats to keep them happy and distracted!

Appointment Policies

​Please arrive 5 minutes prior to your pet's appointment for check-in. If you have not filled out all relevant patient forms yet, plan to arrive 10 minutes ahead of your appointment.

While we do our best to make sure all of our patients are seen on time, there will be times of occasional unexpected delay due to an emergency or because we are providing care for a patient that needs a little more time. Please accept our apologies should this occur, and understand that the same dedication and courtesy will be provided to your pet should they ever need it.

Book Appointment (804) 741-3200

"just took our girl ziggy [beagle mix] in for her checkup. she's a goochland country girl that strayed up on us years ago and STAYED! despite now being over ten, she's solid... like a rock.dr. mortimer has taken great care of our two. we also have an anatolian shepherd named zeus... who also just had a recent visit. and it was a good visit till zeus found out DR. MORTIMER IS SEEING ANOTHER ANATOLIAN SHEPHERD!! so zeus now knows he's not his one and only anatolian... that there's now a 'SLOPPY SECOND' in dr. m's life.we've been going to dr. mortimer for ten years now and everyone there has provided wonderful care and service to us and ours.... especially since this go-round ziggy was having an issue getting a mani-pedi. so dr. mortimer stopped and gave 'cheese whiz on a popsicle stick' to divert her attention to something she loves... FOOD.M. Grouxauthor of 'we chose him and she chose us.'"

Michelle G.

(804) 741-3200 Appointments
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