Our commitment to cost transparency
A bill that arrives as a surprise is a failure of communication. Before any treatment begins, we provide a written estimate. For critical patients who need immediate stabilization, we collect an initial deposit to start diagnostics and emergency care, then review the full estimate with you as soon as possible — typically within the first hour.
We update you on both your pet's medical progress and the current cost picture at each shift change — generally around 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. You are always welcome to call at any time for an update on either.
We will never proceed with a major treatment or procedure without your authorization. If costs need to change from the original estimate, we call you first. We would rather have an honest conversation than present you with a bill that does not match what you expected.
Cost reference — what to expect
Every case is different, and final costs depend on your pet's specific condition, the diagnostics required, and the level of care needed. The ranges below reflect typical costs and are meant to help you plan — not to be taken as exact quotes.
| Situation | Typical range | What this includes |
|---|---|---|
| Exam & triage only | $100–$200 | Examination, vital signs, initial assessment |
| Exam + diagnostics | $400–$800 | Bloodwork panel, urinalysis, X-rays or ultrasound |
| Toxin ingestion treatment | $300–$1,500 | Decontamination, IV fluids, monitoring, medications |
| Trauma stabilization | $500–$2,000 | Imaging, wound care, IV fluids, pain management |
| Urinary obstruction (cats) | $800–$2,500 | Unblocking, IV fluids, hospitalization, monitoring |
| Seizure management | $400–$1,200 | IV anticonvulsants, bloodwork, monitoring |
| Emergency surgery | $1,500–$5,000+ | Anesthesia, surgeon time, post-op ICU care |
| Overnight ICU stay | $800–$2,000 / night | 24/7 monitoring, nursing care, IV medications |
How our deposit system works
For critical patients who need immediate care, we collect a deposit at admission so we can begin diagnostics and stabilization without delay. Here is exactly how the process works:
Initial deposit — $1,000
For critical cases, we collect a $1,000 deposit at the time of admission. This covers the first wave of diagnostics (bloodwork, X-rays, ultrasound) and initial treatment (IV placement, fluids, and stabilizing medications). We begin care immediately.
Full estimate presented
Once we have assessed your pet and have a treatment plan, we present you with a written estimate as quickly as possible — typically within the first hour. We walk you through what is recommended and why, answer your questions, and give you time to make an informed decision.
Deposit equal to estimate low end
To proceed with the full treatment plan, we require a deposit equal to the low end of the estimate. The initial $1,000 deposit is applied toward this amount. You are not charged for anything beyond the agreed estimate without a conversation first.
Regular financial updates
At each shift change (approximately 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.), the veterinarian calls with a medical update and a current financial summary. You always know where you stand. Any significant change in the estimate is communicated before it happens.
Final balance at discharge
At discharge, you pay the remaining balance. Any portion of the deposit not used is refunded. We provide an itemized invoice for insurance reimbursement if needed.
Payment methods we accept
Credit & debit cards
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Debit cards are accepted with PIN or signature.
Cash
Cash is accepted. Exact change is appreciated but not required — we will provide change.
CareCredit
Healthcare credit card with promotional financing options. Apply online at carecredit.com or in our office. Approval is typically instant.
Cherry financing
Flexible payment plans with fast approval. Cherry offers a range of financing terms. Ask about Cherry when you arrive or apply at withcherry.com.
Pet insurance
Most pet insurance plans operate on a reimbursement model: you pay us at the time of service, then submit our itemized invoice to your insurer for reimbursement. We do not bill insurers directly, but we provide detailed, itemized invoices that simplify the claims process.
We strongly encourage pet owners who do not yet have insurance to look into it. Emergency care costs are real, and insurance changes the financial equation significantly. The time to get coverage is before an emergency — not after.
We understand that cost is a real factor in treatment decisions, and we never judge families for the choices they make. What we ask is that you let us know your constraints honestly — so we can work with you to find options, prioritize the most critical treatments, or help you understand what to expect. Honest conversations lead to better outcomes for everyone, especially your pet.