Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions/answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at Rialto Animal Hospital.

1. What are the Hospital hours?

   Our hospital is open Monday - Friday from 7:00am to 6:00pm, and Saturdays we are open from 9:00am until noon. The clinic is closed on Sunday. We are not a 24-hour facility.

2. Do I need to have an appointment?

    Appointments are strongly encouraged, but we do accept walk-ins.

3. What forms of payment do you accept?

     Cash, Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Discover, and Care Credit

4. Can I make payments?

    Payment is required at the time of service. (See Care Credit link above)

5. At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?

   Spaying or neutering can be done at approximately 4-6 months of age (6 months of age is preferable for dogs). Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen is recommended prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

6.  What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

   This is a blood test that is run here in the clinic prior to surgery. It tests the organ functions, blood counts and clotting function of your pet. The pre-anesthetic blood screening is done to assure safety during surgery and the ability to heal following surgery.

7. How long do the sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?

   Procedures involving sutures require them to be removed in 10-14 days following the surgery.

8.  Is it a good idea to let my pet have at least one litter?

    No, there is no advantage to letting your pet have one litter. However there are plenty of advantages to having you pet spayed or neutered. These advantages include decreasing the chances of breast tumors later in life, decreasing the chance of cystic ovaries and uterine infections later in life, decreasing the desire to roam the neighborhood, decreasing the incidence of prostate cancer later in life, helping prevent spraying and marking, and also decreases the surplus of unwanted puppies and kittens.

9.  Do you board pets?

   Yes, we provide boarding for our clients. We have boarding space for both dogs and cats. We also can board birds and other small animals, but you will be required to bring your own cage and food for your pet. Please make sure all personal items are clearly/permanently marked with your pet's first and last name.

10.  What are your kennels like?

   Our dog kennels are all indoor. Dog "guests" are walked 2 times daily during their stay. Our feline friends are housed in a separate area away from the dogs with their own "perch". Blankets and food are provided for our boarders, but you are always welcome to bring your own. If you are interested in seeing our facilities, please call our office or stop by for a tour.