We typically see our patients on an appointment basis. Our client service team will attempt to accommodate all appointment requests as best we can during clinic hours.

Medical emergencies may be accepted when our clinic is open. There can be additional fees associated with these types of visits since other appointments will be disrupted. Whenever possible, please call to let us know if your pet is in need of emergency care as we may refer you to another facility that may be better equipped to handle the care needed.

If you have an emergency after our normal hours, our voice mail message provides the number of the after-hours clinic South Metro Animal Emergency Care in Apple Valley (952-953-3737).

Vaccinations are part of good health care for your pet and keep important diseases in check. We follow the current AAHA guidelines and recommend the distemper combination and rabies vaccine be given to your pet every three years once they complete their initial boosters.

Cats are more susceptible to developing a vaccination sarcoma (cancer) with normal adjuvanted vaccines – therefore at Southfork, we have adjuvant-free rabies that is given to cats every year.

A titer (blood test) is available to monitor your pet’s immunity against distemper and rabies to perhaps vaccinate even less frequently, but most states will not recognize this protection against rabies if your pet bites someone. Other vaccines may be recommended based on your pet’s lifestyle.

Routine surgeries are scheduled in the mornings Monday through Friday. Pets are to be dropped off M-W between 8 and 8:30 am, Th-F between 7 and 8 am unless other arrangements have been made. Pre-anesthetic blood work can be performed beforehand but is also available same day and is required on every pet undergoing anesthesia. Each patient is placed under the strict observation of a Certified Veterinary Technician.

They are also monitored electronically throughout their procedure with ECG, blood pressure, temperature, oxygenation and CO2 levels. We preemptively use pain medications to ensure your pet’s comfort during and after the procedure. Our patients recover in our treatment area under the doctor and technicians watchful eye. At the time of discharge, typically the technician overseeing your pet will take the time to explain post-operative instructions and answer any questions you may have.

You can request a telemedicine consult by calling our office.

Teleconferencing visits can be used for

• Behavioral consultations
• Medication consultations
• Dietary/weight discussions
• Post-surgical rechecks
• Puppy/Kitten consultations
• Quality of Life discussions
• Rechecks for conditions such as skin, lameness, or dental procedures

Teleconferencing cannot take the place of a physical examination, so even if you request a tele visit, it may be necessary to schedule a physical visit depending on your concern.