Questions We Hear Every Day
The things you're Googling at midnight — answered plainly.
If your dog is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is bleeding and won't stop, is having repeated seizures, or has eaten something toxic — go to an emergency clinic immediately. For everything else: if something feels wrong at 11pm, call us. We have an after-hours line that connects to a veterinarian, not a voicemail. Trust your gut. You know your dog.
A first puppy visit is about 45 minutes. We do a full nose-to-tail physical exam, check for parasites, discuss your vaccination schedule (we won't give 7 vaccines in one visit — that's not how we practice), talk about diet, and answer every question you've been saving up. Bring the breeder or shelter paperwork if you have it. Don't stress about what you don't know yet — that's what we're here for.
Core vaccines for cats: FVRCP (distemper/respiratory combo) and rabies. FVRCP is given at 8, 12, and 16 weeks for kittens, then every 3 years for adults. Rabies is required by law and renewed annually or every 3 years depending on the product. FeLV (feline leukemia) is recommended for outdoor cats. We don't over-vaccinate — we look at your cat's actual lifestyle and exposure risk.
A routine exam is $65. Vaccines are $18–$32 each. We'll give you a written estimate before any procedure over $100. We accept CareCredit and Scratchpay for larger bills. If cost is a real barrier, tell us — we would rather know upfront than have you leave without the care your pet needs. We've worked with clients on payment plans more times than we can count.
If your dog is non-weight-bearing (won't put the paw down at all), come in same day. If they're limping but still using the leg, monitor for 24 hours: rest, no jumping, no stairs. If it's not better or gets worse, call us. Sudden limping in large breeds over 5 years old — especially in the shoulder or elbow — should be seen sooner. That's one we don't like to wait on.
Yes, and here's why: cats over 10 are prone to kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes — all of which can be managed well if caught early and managed poorly if caught late. Bloodwork every 3–6 months for a senior cat with a known condition isn't over-treatment. It's how we keep them comfortable for longer. We'll always explain what we're looking for and what the results mean in plain language.
Yes. We see rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, rats, and birds. Exotic care requires different training than dog and cat medicine — Dr. Reyes on our team completed additional certification in exotic animal medicine. If you're coming in with a small animal, mention it when you book so we can set aside appropriate time. Exotics often need quieter handling and a calmer exam environment.
Call (510) 555-0142 — our after-hours line is answered by a veterinarian or trained technician who can help you decide whether to go to an emergency clinic or wait until morning. The nearest 24-hour emergency facility is Bay Area Veterinary Specialists on Hegenberger Rd, 4 miles from us. We'll give you a direct referral and call ahead if needed.
(510) 555-0142 — After-Hours LineYes. We offer quarterly bloodwork packages for pets over 8 years. Bundled pricing, consistent monitoring, and a vet who knows your animal's baseline.
What We Can Do For You
Capabilities that matter when they matter most.
17 years in Temescal means we've handled the full spectrum — from first puppy exams to complex diagnostics. Here's what you can count on.
Diagnostics In-House
Full bloodwork, urinalysis, and digital X-ray completed during your visit — not sent out to a lab. Results the same day you need them.
Soft Tissue Surgery
Spay, neuter, mass removals, and gastrointestinal procedures performed on-site by Dr. Alvarez, who trained at UC Davis Veterinary Medical Center.
Senior Wellness Plans
Quarterly bloodwork packages for pets over 8 years. Bundled pricing, consistent monitoring, and a vet who knows your animal's baseline.
Specialist Referrals
When something is beyond our scope, we refer to board-certified specialists at SAGE and VCA Bay Area — and we coordinate the transfer, so you're not starting from scratch.
Exotic Animal Medicine
Rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, rats, birds, and reptiles. Dr. Reyes completed advanced certification in exotic animal medicine at the University of Florida.
After-Hours Phone Line
Answered by a veterinarian or licensed technician — not an answering service. We help you decide: come in now, go to emergency, or wait until morning.
Ready to meet your neighborhood vet?
First visit, urgent concern, or long-overdue checkup — we're here.