What to Expect at the Initial Evaluation Session

Details about your upcoming initial evaluation appointment.
Need to schedule your pet’s initial evaluation? Contact us!

What to bring to your appointment?

Once we’ve confirmed your initial evaluation appointment, we’ll ask you to send your pet’s records over ASAP. We will also ask you to fill out an important patient form before your appointment. *These are both timely and important!*

• Feed your pet only a light breakfast so we can be sure they stay interested in their training. 

• We use lots of treats to motivate your pet, when possible!

• If your pet has any dietary restrictions, please bring an appropriate, high-value treat to their appointment.
  
  

What to do when you get here?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled initial evaluation.

We’ll start with a quick introduction while you look over and sign the consent form for your pet's evaluation (if you haven’t already signed it digitally).

The examination portion of the initial evaluation will last 30-45 minutes. You are more than welcome to hang out in our lobby or go grab a coffee during that time.

We are a small, locally owned and operated business and we require payment at the time of service. Cash or Cards are accepted.

If you or your pet are experiencing any signs of illness (vomiting, diarrhea, UTI, respiratory signs, etc…), we ask that you reschedule your rehab appointment and seek medical attention with your primary provider. Please note any pets with open wounds, festering sores, diarrhea, or vomiting will not be allowed in the underwater treadmill for the safety of all our patients!

We have a $50 fee for cancellations with less than 24-hours notice. While we understand that emergencies happen, our schedule is generally set a week in advance. We will always work with you as much as possible to accommodate any changes in your schedule.

We are not a primary veterinarian. We refer back to your primary veterinarian for any non-rehabilitation medical concerns.

What happens at their initial evaluation?

We'll start the evaluation by obtaining your pet's weight and taking a picture to look at posture and a profile picture to put on file. Then our technicians take videos of your pet walking up and down the "runway" to observe their gait. 

After their pawparazzi session, Dr. Esquivel will review your pet’s medical records and imaging to compare her exam findings.

A tour will be offered before you meet with Dr. Esquivel.

The last portion of your appointment will include meeting one-on-one with Dr. Esquivel to discuss the findings of your pet’s exam, the treatment program and goals, and time to ask questions. An exercise program for your pet will be emailed to you and a tech will go over those at your pet’s first appointment, if needed.