HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT

As a new client at Murrysville Veterinary Associates, you can expect to receive our full attention for your pet's health needs.

From the first phone call we receive, we aim to provide compassionate, thorough communication. In keeping with the Fear Free initiative, we will begin at that time to ask about your pet's specific needs and address any concerns you have with transporting your pet to our facility. It is best if you can provide us with your pet's previous medical records prior to the appointment so that our doctors can review any prior medical issues.

Once at Murrysville Veterinary Associates, you will be greeted warmly. The lobby is well-lit, calm, spacious and is divided into a separate section for dogs and cats with visual barriers in place to decrease stress. Our building was designed by Heather Lewis of Animal Arts with the Fear Free initiative and the experience of both you and your pet in mind. Coffee and water are available while you wait as well as limited wifi; however, our goal is to have your pet be seen in a timely manner.

A member of our veterinary care team will escort you and your pet to either a dog- or cat-specific examination room. Generally, a technician will take a history on your pet before the doctor comes into the room. Examinations are normally done in front of the pet's family, and we will use Fear Free handling techniques to minimize your pet's fear, anxiety, and stress to the best of our abilities. Dogs and cats may receive treats during an examination - so, please be sure to alert us to any allergies. After examination, the veterinarian will discuss her findings, answer any questions you may have, and make a plan with you in order to make sure your pet gets the best care possible. If there is a chronic or specific health issue, we can often plan for a more extended visit to ensure all of your pet's needs are met. In this same way, we can make certain accommodations in scheduling at times for those pets with a history of fear and anxiety in order to try to make their first visit with us as stress-free as possible.

If you have any questions prior to your first visit, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] or 724-327-6355. We look forward to meeting you and your pet!