Your Pet's First Visit

A pet's first visit to the vet can seem a bit daunting, so we've put together a list of info and resources to help you prepare. 

At your first appointment, we will gather information about your pet’s background, health, diet, and training. We can also address any questions or concerns you might have.

Your veterinarian will examine your pet from nose-to-tail, looking for things like heart murmurs, ear infections, and/or parasites. Your vet can also provide pet-proofing tips, training assistance, and parasite protection recommendations. 

Before Your First Appointment
  1. Complete the New Client Form prior to your first visit.
  2. Assemble and be sure to bring all the proper items with you:
    • Your pet's adoption or purchase records
    • Any existing medical history
    • A list of current medications and supplements
    • Current feeding schedule and the brand of food you use
    • A list of questions you have for your veterinarian
  3. Collect any necessary stool or urine samples, if requested.
  4. If you're bringing in your dog, be sure he or she is accustomed to being on a short leash. If you're bringing a cat, be sure to have an appropriate carrier.
  5. Feel free to bring your pet's favorite treats to keep them happy and distracted!

Appointment Policies

​Please arrive 5 minutes prior to your pet's appointment for check-in. If you have not filled out all relevant patient forms yet, plan to arrive 10 minutes ahead of your appointment.

While we do our best to make sure all of our patients are seen on time, there will be times of occasional unexpected delay due to an emergency or because we are providing care for a patient that needs a little more time. Please accept our apologies should this occur, and understand that the same dedication and courtesy will be provided to your pet should they ever need it.

"I had an emergency with my miniature dachshund, in which she was hit by a car and rushed to another emergency vet. After a few days she was not able to urinate still and that same vet recommended euthanasia, and said it was basically our only option other than an extremely expensive surgery that might not work anyway. I took her to see Dr. Paradiso as I had in the past for complicated cancer-related surgeries (which were also extremely successful) and she tried a last ditch effort of putting her on a medication used for urinary muscle tone in cats, and it worked beautifully!! My sweet girl is still here a year and a half later because of this. I'm so thankful for this hospital!"

Sierra D.

Hamilton Animal Care - Hamilton Blvd

Our Business Hours

Monday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 7:00pm
Saturday Hours Vary
Sunday Closed

Hamilton Animal Care - Tilghman St

Our Business Hours

Monday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 8:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 7:00pm
Saturday Hours Vary
Sunday Closed
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