Frequently Asked Questions
Please take a moment to review a list of our most commonly asked questions. We encourage you to contact us for any reason.
Do house calls cost more than going to the vet's office?
In addition to the usual veterinary fees, there is a house call fee of $70. If multiple pets are seen during the same visit, there is still only one house call fee. In addition to travel, Dr. Kleiner spends significantly more time with you and your pet in comparison to the 15-20 minutes allotted at most practices. Prices for other services (e.g., exams, testing, treatments) are comparable to those charged at other local hospitals.
How should I prepare for my pet's house call visit?
If this is your first experience with No Place Like Home, please fill out the New Client Form or call us to provide your information over the phone. For details on how to prepare for your first visit, please see our resources for new clients.
Where in my home do you work?
The physical exam can be performed any place in your home or yard where your pet will be most comfortable. This can be on a sofa, ottoman, favorite bed or sleeping area, or on the floor. If potentially messy treatments are required, a blanket will be used to protect your belongings.
Do you allow urgent or same-day appointments?
If there is an available appointment, we are happy to schedule a visit on that day. Dr. Kleiner can also make a referral to a local hospital to ensure your pet is cared for right away.
How can I make payments?
Payment is required at the time of service. We gladly accept cash, checks, Zelle, and all major credit cards.
What is your cancellation policy?
Due to the nature of a house call service, very few appointments can be scheduled each day. Therefore, we require 24 hours’ notice to cancel an appointment. Please be sure to contact us if you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment.
Can I schedule a house call when my pet is sick?
We can examine your pet and conduct diagnostic testing for most illnesses. A full physical exam will be performed, along with any necessary blood tests, urine and fecal tests, and skin and ear cytologies and cultures. If your pet needs additional diagnostics, such as an x-ray, ultrasound, or echocardiogram, arrangements will be made for these to be performed at a local hospital.
What is the process for having my pet spayed or neutered?
Prior to surgery, pets are given an exam to determine if they are healthy enough to undergo the procedure. A pre-anesthetic blood screen is also required. Your pet will be closely monitored (e.g., blood pressure, EKG, temperature, respiratory rate) during and after anesthesia.
How often does my pet need to have his or her teeth cleaned? Is there anything I should be doing at home?
Your pet's teeth are evaluated as part of the annual physical exam to determine if a dental procedure is needed. Just like people, pets develop tartar and oral disease at different rates. Many large dogs can go 2-4 years without a cleaning, while smaller breeds often need a professional cleaning every 6-12 months. Likewise, some cats need routine dental care beginning at a very young age while others need only 1-3 cleanings throughout their lives.
Brushing your pet’s teeth at home can minimize how often your pet requires a professional cleaning. If your pet is prone to dental disease, there are special treats and diets we may recommend. If a dental procedure is needed, Dr. Kleiner will recommend a local hospital to perform the necessary treatment.
How often do you recommend performing blood work on my pet?
Bloodwork is recommended annually for mature adults and biannually for senior pets. These tests monitor the liver, kidneys, blood sugar, and blood protein levels. For senior pets, a urinalysis and thyroid testing may also be recommended.
