First Visit

What to Expect at Your First Visit to Coastal Holistic

Welcome to your pet’s first visit at Coastal Holistic, where we prioritize your pet’s well-being through a comprehensive consultation lasting an hour and a half with our holistic veterinarians, and a forty-five minute consultation with our general practice veterinarian. This initial appointment is of utmost importance, as it allows us to delve into your pet’s medical history, conduct a thorough examination, and discuss any concerns or symptoms you may have observed. During this consultation, your doctor will also take the time to understand your pet’s behaviors, diet, and living environment, providing a holistic view of their health.

Follow-up appointments typically last 30 minutes and may include a brief examination, as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, or other necessary treatments.

Check-in & Appointment Procedure

Based on a careful analysis of all these factors, your doctor will craft a customized nutrition and health plan, ensuring your pet receives the personalized attention they deserve.

Together, you and the doctor will collaborate on determining the best treatment strategy to support your pet’s overall well-being.

We believe in providing ample time for you and your pet to spend with the doctor during the first visit, which may result in a higher cost compared to a visit to a traditional veterinarian. Please note that the initial appointment fee does not include acupuncture, chiropractic, or other therapies. However, if time permits and you desire these services during the initial visit, they can be arranged for separate charges.

Additionally, routine diagnostic testing, bloodwork, and vaccinations, if required, will also be provided for an additional fee.

We learned that it is much safer and more efficient to have our technicians restrain animals correctly, gently and safely while we examine and work on them. We learned during the pandemic that most animals are more relaxed not having their owners with them. Not having the owner present also allows the veterinarian and team to focus on the pets without added distraction. We also feel that we have greatly reduced human disease amongst our team (ie viruses, colds) by limiting humans in the clinic. In the rare cases when we do find that the animals are difficult to examine or restrain or are more anxious without their owners, we contact the the owner to find another solution such as performing the exam outside with the owner and/or using sedation when indicated. We make the pets as comfortable as possible by providing large dog beds, treats, calming music and we go slow when they need us to. We often watch dogs move outside with the owners if there is a lameness concern but for appointments and acupuncture, the staff will handle the animal inside in almost all cases. After the exam, the vet will usually meet with the owner and the pet to go over findings, point out areas of concern and discuss the plan moving forward.

Important Appointment Policies

To ensure efficient scheduling and offer our clients the best possible care, we kindly request a valid credit card number to hold your new patient consultation appointment. If, for any reason, you need to reschedule or cancel, we require 24 hours’ notice; otherwise, your credit card will be charged for the amount of the initial consultation fee. Similar fees apply for missed follow-up visits.

Prior to scheduling your first appointment, we require proof of at least one rabies vaccination during your pet’s lifetime OR a medical note explaining why they are exempt. We also require a copy of your pet’s medical history.

Your cooperation with our appointment policy is greatly appreciated, as it allows us to serve all our clients with the attention they deserve. If you do need to reschedule or cancel, the more notice you can provide, the better, as it allows us to accommodate other clients who may be in need of care. We understand that unforeseen events may occur, and we are here to support you through your pet’s journey to wellness.