FAQ
Twelve questions, answered like we're in the room.
The things people actually ask at the front desk, on the phone, and — for the hardest one — quietly at the end of an appointment. If yours isn't here, call us. Rosa has heard everything.
How do I book — and can I ask for a specific vet?
Book online in about a minute or call (613) 555-0142. The scheduler lets you pick Dr. Okafor, Dr. Whitfield, or Dr. Raman, or take the first available appointment. If your pet has a complicated history, staying with one vet is genuinely worth it, and we'll protect that continuity where we can.
What should I bring to a first visit?
Any previous records (we can request these for you — just tell us the clinic's name), whatever food they eat, and a list of medications. Dogs on a leash, cats and small mammals in a carrier. If your pet is anxious, arrive a few minutes early and we'll room you straight away rather than waiting in the lobby.
How much will it cost? Can I get an estimate first?
Our exam and vaccine fees are published on the pricing page, and anything beyond an exam — dental work, surgery, diagnostics — gets a written estimate before we proceed. Nobody should meet a number for the first time at the front desk.
Do you take pet insurance?
We work with every insurer. Most pet insurance in Canada reimburses you after you pay, so we provide itemized invoices and complete records the same day, and we'll fill out claim paperwork at no charge. If you're choosing a policy, ask us — we see which ones pay out smoothly.
Which vaccines does my pet actually need?
Core vaccines (rabies and the distemper combos) — yes, essentially always. Everything else depends on lifestyle: a dog who boards needs Bordetella; an indoor-only cat probably doesn't need leukemia vaccine after kittenhood. We recommend by lifestyle, not by default, and we'll tell you plainly when something isn't needed.
Is anaesthesia safe for my pet?
Modern veterinary anaesthesia is very safe, and we stack the odds further: a pre-anaesthetic exam, optional bloodwork we genuinely recommend for seniors, an individual drug protocol, IV access on every patient, and a registered technician whose only job is monitoring from premed to fully awake. If your pet has higher risk factors, we'll discuss them with you honestly before you decide.
My pet hates the vet. What do you do differently?
Quite a lot. Cats get their own exam room away from dog traffic. We use treats, non-slip mats, and slow handling, and Dr. Raman has advanced training in low-stress techniques. For very anxious pets we can prescribe pre-visit medication that takes the edge off — ask when you book, and we'll plan the visit around your pet rather than the clock.
How do prescription refills and food orders work?
Request refills by phone or email and we'll have them ready within one business day — regulations require a current exam (within 12 months) for most prescriptions, and we'll flag when one is coming due. Veterinary diets can be ordered through the front desk, usually arriving within two days.
What happens if my pet gets sick at 2 a.m.?
Call Capital 24-Hour Animal Emergency Centre at (613) 555-0199 — 88 Carling Court, open all night, every night. Call ahead if you can so their team can prepare. Then let us know in the morning: we'll request the records and handle the follow-up care here.
Do you see rabbits and other small pets?
Yes — Dr. Okafor and Dr. Raman see rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, and hamsters. We don't treat birds or reptiles, but we'll refer you to an avian-exotic practice we trust rather than guessing outside our lane.
How will I know when it's time to say goodbye?
This is the hardest question we're asked, and you don't have to answer it alone. We offer unhurried quality-of-life consults where we look honestly at pain, appetite, and the things that make your pet themselves. When the time comes, we have a quiet room with a couch instead of a table, all the time you need, and gentle aftercare options including cremation with return. There is no wrong amount of grief, and our team will never rush yours.
What if I need to cancel or I'm running late?
Life with animals is chaos — we know. Give us a call and we'll rebook you, no fee for a first miss. If you're more than 15 minutes late we may need to convert the visit to a drop-off or rebook so the pets behind you aren't kept waiting. Repeated no-shows may require a deposit for future bookings.
If it can't wait
During our hours: call us first at (613) 555-0142 — say it's an emergency and we'll direct you straight in.
Nights, weekends, holidays: Capital 24-Hour Animal Emergency Centre, (613) 555-0199 · 88 Carling Court, Ottawa.
Open nights, weekends, and holidays. No appointment needed — call ahead so their team can prepare for you.
Cedar Hollow Veterinary
Still wondering about something?
Call and ask — questions are free, always. Or book the visit and bring the whole list with you; thirty minutes is enough for all of it.
Emergency right now? Don't book online — call us, or after hours call Capital 24-Hour Animal Emergency Centre at (613) 555-0199.