NorthStar VETS Client Forms and FAQ

FAQs and Forms

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FAQs and Forms

FAQs | Client Forms |

Q: What is the phone number for Animal Poison Control?

A: (888) 426-4435
Q: Why did the hospital change its name?

A: Our old name, Veterinary Surgical and Diagnostic Specialists, no longer accurately reflected who we were, the scope of our services or where we were going.
Q: What method of payments do you accept?

A: Cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, and CareCredit are accepted. Full payment is due when service is rendered.
Q: Will I learn how much a treatment plan will cost?

A: YES. During your consultation with the specialist or emergency clinician, an estimate will be prepared based on the devised treatment plan and reviewed with you for your approval.
Q: Do you offer discounts?

A: We only offer discounts to rescue groups. Please call the hospital to learn of the requirements.
Q: Do I need a referral?

A: If you are scheduling an appointment with a specialist, YES. If you come through the emergency department, a referral is not necessary.
Q: Can you be my family veterinarian?

A: NO. While we are flattered that you may want us to take care of all your pets needs, we only treat patients requiring specialty and/or emergency care. We do not do any routine procedures such as spay/neuter, dental, vaccinations, or heartworm/flea preventative unless previously arranged with your family veterinarian.
Q: Is it normal that my pet has not had a bowel movement or urinated since its procedure?

A: YES. It is very common that your pet may not relieve itself within the first 24 hours following a procedure. Please call NorthStar VETS immediately if this persists beyond 24 hours, as this could indicate a problem requiring medical attention.
Q: What is the difference between a board certified specialist and my family veterinarian?

A: A specialist has gone through rigorous and extensive training consisting of four years of undergraduate school, four years of veterinary school, one year of internship and two to three years of residency in their chosen specialty such as surgery, internal medicine, ophthalmology, etc. Once all the educational components have been satisfied, the doctor must submit and publish original research and sit for a national exam. Upon successfully passing the exam, which is commonly known as "boards," the specialist receives the highly distinguished Diplomate status.
Q: What does it mean if my family veterinarian is an American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP)?

A: This means your veterinarian has become certified in, and focused on, a specific group of animals such as dogs, cats, horses, birds, etc. Please note: they are not to be confused with a specialist and are still considered a primary care veterinarian.
Q: What is CareCredit and what plans do you accept?

A: For those families who wish to pursue treatment for their beloved pets and do not have immediate access to funds, we suggest they apply for CareCredit, a credit card offered by GE Finance and accepted at many veterinary offices as well as some human medical practices. Applicants may apply at our facility, online at www.carecredit.com or by calling (800) 365-8295. Most of the time, CareCredit will give applicants an immediate decision on the status of their application along with their account number and available credit limit.
If you and your family decide CareCredit is the best payment option for your pet's care, we offer different types of payment options. Anything charged to the account over $300 can be interest-free for 3 months. However, if the balance is not paid in full by the end of the 3-month period, you will be charged the accrued interest of your total bill at 22.9% APR.
We also offer extended payment options for any amount charged to the card over $1,000. You can choose to pay off the balance within 24, 36 or 48 months at a reduced interest option of 13.9%. If you charge $2,500 or more to your account, you may also choose to pay the balance off in 60 months at 13.9%.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?

A: We do not offer any type of payment plan at our facility. Payments are due at the time our services are rendered. We accept all types of payments: all major credit cards, CareCredit, personal checks and cash.
Q: Do you accept pet insurance?

A: Since society now views our pets as beloved members of the family, pet owners can purchase pet insurance to ensure their pets can receive outstanding veterinary care. There are various pet insurance companies, so be sure to research which plan best fits your family's budget and your pet's health needs. Pet insurance companies will supply you with claim forms you bring with you to your veterinary office the veterinary staff to complete. You pay the veterinary office directly, mail or fax the claim form to the insurance company, and they will reimburse you the appropriate amount allocated by your plan. NorthStar VETS does not endorse one plan over another, as it is a very personal decision selecting the right plan for your family. For your convenience, we have listed on our resource page various pet insurance websites.
Q: When are your visiting hours?

A: Monday - Friday: 7 - 11 PM
Saturday - Sunday: 2 - 11 PM
Please call ahead to schedule a visit with your pet.
Q: When will my pet be discharged from the hospital?

A: Patients are discharged between 10 AM - 11 PM, Monday through Sunday. The discharge time is scheduled at your convenience, once your pet has been medically cleared for discharge by the attending specialist or emergency clinician.
Q: Can I call to get an update on my pet's condition?

A: Absolutely! Our team is here to help ease your anxiety about leaving your pet for treatment and/or a procedure. A receptionist, technician, ER clinician or the attending specialist will be able to provide you with an update between 9:30a - 12 midnight.