Freeport Veterinary Medical Center
Frequently Asked Questions
We proudly serve the pets Freeport, TX and beyond.
We wanted to address some frequently asked questions for you here to help save you some time. If you don’t find the question and answer combination you’re looking for here, please do not hesitate to contact us at (979)233-3290. We’d be happy to assist you!
Do you accept new clients?
We are always open to meeting new clients and their pets. Feel free to contact us so that we can schedule an appointment at a time that is convenient for you.
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes, we sure do. For existing and new patients that are in need. We are not on-site 24/7, so please call ahead so we can ensure a doctor and technician are made aware of your emergency.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring any copies you may have of previous records. Please also bring any medication that your animal is on.
How are records transferred from my previous veterinarian?
We will contact your previous veterinary office to have your records transferred to us. You simply need to let us know who your previous veterinarian is!
What types of payments do you accept?
Payment is due at the time of service rendered. To make sure that your pets receive the care they need, we accept multiple forms of payment. We accept cash and checks along with most major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. We also accept CareCredit, and ScratchPay which are other forms of credit.
Do you offer payment plans?
No, at this time we do not.
Should I get pet insurance for my pets?
Pet insurance can be helpful when it comes to covering unexpected and routine expenses for your pet. Many companies reimburse you at a percentage of your invoice after the veterinary visit. We do not receive payment directly from pet insurance companies. As such, you need to be prepared to cover the balance upfront yourself and then submit for reimbursement through the insurance company. Companies such as Nationwide and Embrace Pet Insurance are common companies we see client’s enrolled with. However, it is ultimately your decision and responsibility to learn which plan and company offerings are best suited for your needs.
How often should my pet see a veterinarian?
In order to ensure your companion is healthy, on track with appropriate parasite control and legally in accordance with laws and statues in our area, we recommend at least once yearly annual examinations. Many times, our doctors can detect disease early and intervene to reverse, slow down or even cure disease if we catch it early, just like you or I.
As pets age, moving to twice yearly examinations in order to rapidly detect developing organ failure, arthritis or even cancerous disease is the standard recommendation by official veterinary medical councils.
When should I get my pet fixed?
We usually recommend spaying or neutering your pets when they are around six months of age. There are times when we might discuss waiting longer due to breed and developmental concerns, so be sure to talk to us about it when you bring your pets in for their early vaccination visits.
Do I really need to fix my pet?
It is very important to get your pets spayed or neutered to keep them healthy. They are less likely to roam, get in fights, or get hit by a car. They are also less likely to develop certain cancers, including breast cancer and prostate cancer. Females who get pregnant can get pyometras, which can be deadly, so it is much safer to spay or neuter your pets unless you are a breeder.
You are also helping to prevent litters of unwanted pets that won’t have a home! Be a responsible pet owner and get your pets spayed or neutered. There are enough unwanted animals in the world, and you don’t need to add to their numbers.
What are some signs of an emergency?
If you see your pets doing anything unusual that you believe could be harming them, contact us immediately. We want to ensure that your pets are safe, so we will do our best to help them as soon as possible.
Some signs of an emergency include trouble breathing, bleeding, pale tongue or gums, sudden loss of vision, unable to stand or rise, sudden loss of balance, a female dog who is not progressing with labor, intense vomiting and diarrhea or lethargy.
Also, if your pets ingest something that they shouldn’t, you need to contact us immediately. Many medications can cause problems if ingested, and items can get stuck in the intestinal tract too!
If you are unsure as to whether your situation constitutes an emergency or not, please call us on our emergency line. We often say, if the situation is abnormal and causing you concern for your pet’s wellbeing than it constitutes an emergency. Our emergency number is (979) 236-1959.
When should I start getting my animal vaccinated?
We suggest that your pet’s received their initial set of vaccines starting at 6-8weeks of age. However, it is just as important to ensure that you follow the vaccine schedule plan you and your veterinarian establish at that first appointment. This will help to ensure your pet is fully protected against many highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases. We want your new family member to grow big and strong, and visit us for many years to come!