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Frequently Asked Questions in West Reno, NV

From what to expect at your visit to how to request records or refill prescriptions, our frequently asked questions section covers the essentials.

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Monte Vista Animal Hospital FAQs

Do you take emergencies?

We accommodate emergency cases for established patients during our regular business hours. Please call us before coming in so we can prepare. After hours, we refer to the Animal Emergency & Specialty Center.

Are you accepting new clients?

Yes! We welcome new dogs and cats to our practice. Please call us at (775) 870-1800 or book an appointment online to get started.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can book appointments via phone, email, or through our PetDesk online scheduling system.

Do you offer overnight or 24-hour care?

No. We provide daytime hospitalization only. Pets requiring overnight care are referred to a trusted 24-hour facility.

What types of pets do you treat?

We are a full-service hospital for dogs and cats only.

What is your approach to surgery and anesthesia?

We follow AAHA standards with advanced anesthetic monitoring and individualized pain management for every surgical patient.

Do you offer flea, tick, and heartworm prevention?

Yes. We carry a full range of preventives and recommend annual testing and year-round protection for all dogs and cats. Learn more about our parasite prevention services. Other preventatives are offered through our online store at competitive prices.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept major credit cards, CareCredit, and other flexible payment options. Visit our Payment Options page for full details.

Do you offer online pharmacy services?

Yes, we offer convenient access to competitively priced medications and preventives through our online store. Home delivery available.

What is your cancellation or no-show policy?

Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. This allows us to better serve all our patients.

Is heartworm prevention truly necessary in our area?

Yes—heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, which are present even in our region. Because infection can occur from a single bite, we recommend consistent, year-round prevention. This simple step protects your pet from a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, allowing them to enjoy life without unnecessary risk.

How do you determine which vaccines my pet needs?

We believe preventative care should be both intentional and personalized. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, we curate vaccine recommendations based on your pet’s lifestyle, environment, and health history—ensuring they are protected without over-vaccination.

How often should my pet receive a dental cleaning?

For most pets, annual dental care is ideal, though some may benefit from more frequent attention. Oral health is closely connected to overall wellness, and proactive care helps prevent discomfort, infection, and systemic disease—supporting a longer, healthier life.

What is your approach to dental procedures?

Your pet’s safety and comfort guide everything we do. Each dental procedure includes a comprehensive oral exam, advanced dental imaging, thorough cleaning and polishing, and individualized treatment as needed. Throughout the procedure, your pet is carefully monitored by our highly trained team using modern anesthetic protocols.

When is the best time to spay or neuter?

Timing is thoughtfully determined based on your pet’s breed, size, and lifestyle. We take a tailored approach and will guide you through the decision, ensuring it aligns with both their immediate needs and long-term health.

What are the benefits of spaying or neutering?

These procedures offer meaningful health and behavioral benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and hormone-driven behaviors. They are an important part of providing your pet with a balanced, healthy life.

How do you help cats who are nervous around dogs?

We understand that many cats feel more comfortable away from canine activity. To help create a calmer visit, we offer a dedicated cat-only space so feline patients can remain separated from dogs while waiting for their appointment. This quieter environment helps reduce stress, supports a more positive experience, and allows your cat to feel more secure from the moment they arrive.

What is a gastropexy, and why might it be recommended?

A gastropexy is a preventative procedure designed to significantly reduce the risk of bloat (GDV), a sudden and life-threatening condition most commonly seen in large, deep-chested breeds. For at-risk dogs, this proactive measure provides an added layer of protection and peace of mind.

Can a gastropexy be performed alongside another procedure?

Yes—gastropexy is often completed at the time of a spay or neuter, allowing us to combine procedures safely under one anesthetic event while enhancing long-term protection.

My pet gets anxious at the vet—how do you create a low-stress experience?

We are deeply committed to creating a calm, reassuring environment for every patient. Our approach incorporates gentle, low-stress handling techniques, quiet exam spaces, and a pace guided by your pet’s comfort level.

We enhance the experience with thoughtful touches such as species-specific spaces, calming pheromones, and positive reinforcement with high-value treats. For pets who need additional support, we may recommend personalized pre-visit plans, including calming supplements or medications, to ensure a more relaxed and positive visit.

Our goal is not just to complete the visit—but to build lasting trust, so each experience feels safer and more familiar over time.

How do you approach low-stress, Fear Free-style care for cats?

Cats experience the veterinary visit very differently than dogs, which is why our approach is intentionally calm, quiet, and feline-focused. We minimize stress by moving at your cat’s pace, using gentle handling techniques, and prioritizing comfort and cooperation throughout the visit.

From a dedicated cat-only space to soft bedding, pheromone support, and thoughtful positioning during exams, every detail is designed to help your cat feel safe and secure. We incorporate positive reinforcement with treats (when appropriate) and take breaks as needed to maintain comfort.

From the moment you arrive, our focus is on creating a calm, comfortable, and elevated experience for both you and your pet. From low-stress handling and comfort-focused visits to carefully curated treatment plans, every detail is designed with your pet’s well-being in mind.