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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.

Book Appointment (804) 270-7274

"Springfield Veterinary Center is the Commonwealth's premier pet reproductive veterinary practice and as a consequence, one of the most research and science-driven practices in the Mid-Atlantic region. Dr. Kolster and her colleagues are venerated by their counterparts in practices throughout the state and region, and deeply respected by the region's major academic animal research and reproductive centers at Virginia Tech and North Carolina State. In addition to her extraordinary medical, scientific, and technical acumen, Dr. Kolster is unfailingly generous with her time and knowledge, kind, principled, and firm in her care for the welfare of her pet patients. The team she has built around her is extraordinarily professional, accessible, and enthusiastic about delivering the highest standard of sensitive and responsive care to patients. We are lucky to have Springfield Veterinary Center in Virginia, and I refer all of my puppy owners to it with deepest respect and confidence."

Suzanne P.

(804) 270-7274 Appointments
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