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Policies and Procedures

Appointment Time Frames:

  • Initial consultations: 60-90 minutes
  • Follow-up appointments: 20-45 minutes

What to expect:

  • Requests for an appointment can be made through our online booking portal, by phone via text or call, email, or the online forum (found under “contact”). We are often working with another patient at the time of your call, so please leave a voicemail and we will return your call as soon as possible.
  • Once an appointment has been requested, we will contact you within 24-48 business hours.
  • Be prepared to provide Dr. Hudson with copies of your pet’s previous medical history PRIOR to your pet’s initial appointment. Please email your pet’s medical records to: info@RIACvet.com 
  • New Clients will need to fill out and return the “Veterinary-Client-Patient-Relationship (VCPR) Form” and “New Patient Form” for each pet that will be seen by Dr. Hudson. Both of these forms are required for us to proceed with confirming your appointment. 
  • Once all paperwork and medical records are received, we will contact you to confirm your pet’s appointment request. 
  • A $50 scheduling fee is required to secure your appointment. A 48hr cancellation policy, and any rescheduling or cancellations must be made by calling (423) 464-7422.

Payment

  • Full payment is due at the time of service.  
  • We are unable to provide  payment plans at this time.
  • We accept cash, Zelle, Venmo, and credit card
    • Credit cards will incur a 3% processing fee. 
    • Sorry, we do not accept checks or Care Credit

Preparing for your appointment:

  • Due to the nature of housecall practice, appointments may run early or late. Every effort will be made to arrive at our scheduled time. However, please allow for a 30 minute window BEFORE & AFTER your appointment time.
  • We require at least one person (age 18 or older) who is a caregiver of the pet to be present during the visit to assist as needed.
    • We understand you are busy, but please do not schedule your appointment when you will not be able to provide your full attention. We will likely need to ask you additional questions, and will also provide you with a great deal of information regarding your pet’s health. We would appreciate your undivided attention during your appointment. 
  • Please have your pet ready to be examined. If your pet is difficult to catch, please have your pet isolated before your scheduled appointment.  
    • Cats must be confined in a carrier or small room, such as a bathroom or area with minimal hiding areas or no furniture.
      • If cats are NOT ready to be examined when we arrive, and takes longer than 15 minutes to catch then your appointment will be rescheduled and you will be responsible for a $50 rescheduling fee. 
      • If you have trouble confining your cat, let us know while making the appointment, and please let us know by text at least one hour before your appointment time if you were not successful.
    • Aggressive pets:
      • If you have a dog that is aggressive, we ask that you warn us in advance when scheduling, and that you place a muzzle at the time of our arrival with your pet controlled on a non-slip leash. We carry muzzles with us but are also happy for you to use your own provided it is a good secure fit.
      • If we cannot safely perform an examination on your pet, we will have to refer you to a full-service veterinary clinic for continued care.  
  • The area of the home where we perform our exam should be in a quiet space where your pet is most comfortable, with no other pets or distractions present.
  • If possible, let your pet eliminate prior to the appointment. 
  • ONLY pets with a scheduled appointment will be seen.
  • Dr. Hudson will bring a variety of treats with her for your pet’s appointment, but if your pet has dietary restrictions/allergies or has a favorite treat then feel free to have those available!