Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions/answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at Sacajawea Healthcare for Pets 253-941-3900.

1. What are the Hospital hours?

   Our hospital is open Monday and Wednesday 8:00am to 6:00pm and Tuesday, Thursday and  Friday from 8:00am to 6:00pm. On Saturdays we are open from 8:30am until 2pm. The clinic is open for a walk-in vaccination clinic from 3:00pm to 5:00pm on the first Saturday of each month. The clinic is closed on Sunday.

2. Do I need to have an appointment?

    Yes, patients are seen by appointment.  If you have an emergency, however, call and come right in, and we will work you in to make sure that your pet gets the care it needs.

3. What forms of payment do you accept?

     Cash, Check, Mastercard, Visa, and American Express

4. Can I make payments?

    Payment is required at the time of service.

5. At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?

   Spaying or neutering can be done at any time after 4 months of age. Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen is recommended prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

6.  What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

   This is a blood test that is run here in the clinic prior to surgery. It tests the your pet's vital functions to assure safety during surgery and the ability to heal following surgery.

7. How long do the sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?

   Procedures involving sutures require them to be removed in 14 days following the surgery.

8.  Is it a good idea to let my pet have at least one litter?

    No, there is no advantage to letting your pet have one litter. However there are plenty of advantages to having you pet spayed or neutered. These advantages include decreasing the chances of breast cancer later in life, decreasing the chance of cystic ovaries and uterine infections, decreasing the desire to roam the neighborhood, decreasing the incidence of prostate diseases, preventing spraying and marking, and decreasing the overpopulation of unwanted puppies and kittens.

9.  Do you board pets?

   We do not normally provide boarding.  We will make exceptions, especially when a pet is elderly or has chronic health problems that require supervision (diabetes, kidney disease, etc). We will occasionally board birds and other small animals, but you will be required to bring your own cage and food for your pet.

10.  What are your kennels like?

   Our dog kennels are completely indoors, including indoor runs.  Cats are housed in a separate area away from the dogs. Blankets and food are provided for hospitalized pets,  but you are always welcome to bring your own.