Policies

Hospital Policies

Appointment Policy

Our doctors see patients by appointment. Each day, we set aside time for ill pets that need to be seen promptly, and emergency cases always receive top priority, followed by patients with scheduled appointments. If your schedule doesn’t line up with an available appointment time, you’re welcome to drop your companion off with us. Please call to schedule an appointment so we can minimize your wait.

New Patient Deposit

Demand for veterinary care has grown significantly, and timely appointments are harder to come by. Unfortunately, we’ve also seen more clients miss scheduled appointments despite email and phone reminders. To keep those limited appointments available — and reduce wait times for everyone — Hayfield Animal Hospital requires a deposit to secure a new patient appointment. The deposit is fully credited toward your first visit and is only non-refundable if the patient doesn’t attend the scheduled appointment.

No-Show Policy

A “no-show” is a client who misses an appointment without canceling it. Failure to be present at the time of a scheduled appointment is recorded in the patient’s chart as a no-show. A no-show appointment results in a $105.00 fee. A second occurrence results in a $105.00 fee, and you may be asked to place a non-refundable deposit in the amount of our exam fee ($94.00) at the time of scheduling.

Surgery No-Show Policy

A surgery no-show is a client who misses a surgery appointment without giving 24 hours’ notice of cancellation. The first time this occurs, we’ll call to reschedule and waive our $105 missed appointment fee. At the second missed surgical appointment, we’ll call to reschedule, and you will be charged the $105 missed appointment fee.

Canceling an Appointment

Out of respect for the medical needs of other patients, please call our office promptly if you’re unable to make your appointment. That time can then be reallocated to another pet in need of care. Appointments are in high demand, and your early cancellation helps another patient get timely treatment.

Patient Arrival Policy

  • For the safety of everyone, all dogs must be on a leash and properly controlled while in the waiting area and exam rooms.
  • All cats must be presented in an appropriate carrier or on a leash, and we ask that small mammals be brought in a secure carrier as well.
  • Cat and small-dog carriers can be provided in advance if needed.

Payment Policy and Financing

  • We request payment at the time services are rendered. For your convenience, we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, CareCredit, ScratchPay, cash, and personal checks.
  • We’re a participating provider with ScratchPay and CareCredit — you can apply online for either.