Ethical Position Statements

Cosmetic Surgery.

We do not perform tail docks, dewclaw removals, or ear cropping. None of these procedures benefit the animal or the owner. The AKC now allows dogs with uncropped ears to compete. Please see our separate section below on declaws, ear crops, tail docks, and dewclaw removal for more information.

Declawing.

We do not declaw cats. Please read our separate section below on declawing, ear crops, tail docks, and dewclaw removal for more information.

Spaying and Neutering.

Sterilization of family pets is strongly encouraged, as there are medical and behavioral benefits to both, not to mention the fact that millions of unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized yearly due to lack of available homes. However, based on medical evidence, we take the position that these procedures not be performed prior to puberty. Premature spays and neuters cause an increased incidence of certain forms of cancers. They can also result in orthopedic changes that may lead to conformational problems and orthopedic disease such as ruptured cruciate ligaments.

Errors.

When a clinic error has been discovered, we advocate honesty and communication with the client. Mistakes happen everywhere, but we try to set ourselves apart by being forthright about those mistakes, and encourage discussion in order to rectify those mistakes.

Abuse.

Abuse of any hospital staff by clients will not be tolerated. This includes communication of any angry or belligerent form.

Pain.

Prevention and treatment of pain is one of our top priorities at this clinic. It is common that during routine exams, as well as exams for painful conditions, we will diagnose a condition causing your pet acute or chronic pain. We will do everything possible to inform you of this pain and the available methods to alleviate it in your pet.

Prescriptions.

Prescriptions are required for those drugs that the FDA feels need the advice of a veterinarian. There are several reasons including the proper use of the medication, proper dosing, and the monitoring of potential side effects. Not all medications can be refilled without monitoring the condition through the use of a recheck exam and/or laboratory testing. We will not refill prescriptions where one of these conditions needs to be met. It is the law.

Prescriptions.

Prescriptions are required for those drugs the FDA feels need the advice of a veterinarian. There are several reasons for this, including the need to establish proper use and dosing of the medication, and the monitoring of potential side effects. Some medications can only be refilled by monitoring the condition with a follow-up exam and/or laboratory testing. We will not refill these prescriptions without meeting one of these requirements, as this is the law.