We’ve compiled clear answers to the most common questions from Forest-area pet parents to help you feel informed and confident about your pet’s care.
We care for dogs and cats, and Dr. Connelly also provides experienced veterinary care for all pocket pets and reptiles.
Our animal hospital has been caring for pets in Forest and the greater Lynchburg area since 1998, with several team members who have been here for decades.
You can apply online through the CareCredit website or ask a member of our team to assist you during your visit.
Yes. CareCredit is widely accepted for a variety of personal healthcare expenses, including dental and medical services.
Yes. Many pet owners use CareCredit to help manage costs for both planned procedures and unexpected medical needs.
No. Pawlicy Advisor is a free comparison platform designed to help you evaluate policies from a variety of insurers.
Most policies require payment at the time of service, followed by claim submission for reimbursement. Some providers may offer alternative payment options.
Enrollment is often most beneficial when pets are young and healthy, which can help reduce costs and limit coverage exclusions.
New clients receive $75 off their first visit, and we also offer a military discount and adoption-related exam specials with proper documentation.
We see urgent and emergency cases during our regular business hours and will help guide you to after-hours care if needed.
Yes, we offer overnight boarding, day boarding, dog daycare, and full-service grooming in a veterinary-supervised environment.
Most adult pets benefit from yearly wellness exams, while puppies, kittens, and senior pets may need visits more often.
Yes. Wellness exams focus on preventive care and overall health, while sick visits address specific illnesses or concerns.
Absolutely. Even indoor pets benefit from routine exams, vaccinations, and screenings to catch hidden health issues early.
Bring any medical records, a list of medications or supplements, and notes about changes you’ve noticed in your pet’s behavior or health.
Your veterinarian will recommend surgery if it’s the safest or most effective way to treat a condition, such as injury, growth removal, or internal issues.
Absolutely. We continuously monitor heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen, CO₂, and temperature, using specialized warming systems to keep your pet safe and comfortable.
We’ll provide detailed instructions before your pet’s appointment, including fasting requirements and any medications to withhold.
Recovery time depends on the type of surgery, but we’ll guide you with clear post-operative instructions and let you know exactly when it’s safe for your pet to return home.
Most cats and dogs benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year, though your veterinarian may recommend more frequent visits for pets with existing dental issues.
Yes. X-rays allow us to see beneath the gumline and identify problems such as root infections or bone loss that can’t be detected during a visual exam alone.
Absolutely. Hamsters, guinea pigs, and other pocket pets can develop overgrown teeth and related health issues, so routine checks and trimming are important.
While no anesthetic procedure is without risk, our dental procedures are performed under carefully monitored anesthesia, and we use specialized equipment to ensure your pet’s safety throughout the process.
Dogs must be current on distemper, parvo, rabies, and bordetella, and provide a negative fecal test before boarding.
Yes! Dogs from the same household can board together, and social play with other dogs is optional based on your instructions.
Shy or senior dogs receive individualized attention, with one-on-one playtime and supervised rest periods to ensure comfort and safety.
Absolutely! Boarding guests can participate in daycare activities for extra enrichment and socialization during their stay.
Yes, all dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations before grooming. If you’re unsure, we can review your dog’s vaccine status during a wellness visit.
We welcome dogs of all breeds and sizes, from tiny pups to large breeds, and tailor each session to their specific needs.
Absolutely! Many clients schedule grooming at the end of a boarding stay so their dog goes home clean, happy, and ready to snuggle.
Yes, our team keeps an eye out for skin issues, lumps, ear infections, and other concerns, notifying you if anything needs veterinary attention.
We provide care for reptiles and all types of pocket pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and more.
Most reptiles and pocket pets benefit from at least one wellness visit per year, though some may require more frequent checkups based on age, species, or health concerns.
Vaccinations are generally not required for reptiles or pocket pets, but we may recommend preventive measures such as parasite screening or diet adjustments.
Yes, our veterinarians provide tailored guidance on nutrition, enclosure setup, temperature, and enrichment to ensure your exotic pet stays healthy and happy.
