Preventative care is the best way to give your pet a lifetime of health and happiness. We want every animal to feel as comfortable as possible at our office, and routine visits give us the opportunity to really get to know your pet, and your family, too. It’s our goal to provide your companion with the very best care through every stage of his or her life.
Annual Wellness Exams
During an annual checkup, a veterinarian examines your pet from nose to tail, looking at their teeth, eyes, ears, skin, heart, joints, and everything in between. One of our techs will assist the doctor throughout the appointment.
We have five examination rooms, including one reserved just for cats.
Annual wellness visits are also the perfect time to update any necessary vaccines and refill prescriptions for your pet’s flea and tick or heartworm prevention. We usually ask you to bring a fecal sample so we can test for intestinal parasites. In certain cases, we run blood or urine tests, as well.
Puppy & Kitten Exams
Get your new pet started out on the right foot with a thorough exam, the appropriate course of inoculations, and a regimen of flea and tick and heartworm preventatives.
The first appointment is the perfect opportunity for new kittens and puppies to become familiar with the hospital and for you to plan ahead for their best care as they grow.
It’s also a chance for us to meet your new companion and say, “Welcome to the family.”
New puppies and kittens receive a kit full of information about caring for your companion throughout their first year and beyond, including vaccine guidelines, training recommendations, emergency contacts, information about Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital’s services, and more.
Fecal Samples
When it comes to collecting a fecal sample, here are two rules of thumb: Fresh is Best, and Less is More.
Fresh is Best: We need to test samples before any parasite eggs or larvae have time to mature and develop. A fresh stool sample yields more accurate and sensitive results. We want to provide accurate results on the first try—we don’t want to ask you to bring a second sample and charge you for a second test.
For the best results, collect a fresh sample and bring it in on the same day. If that’s not possible, seal the sample in a Ziplock bag or in one of our complimentary sample containers, place it in a cool place like the refrigerator or garage (do not freeze,) and bring it in within 24 hours.
Less is More: We don’t need the whole backyard! A sample about the size of a chocolate kiss will do just fine.
If you have more than one cat who share a litterbox, we only need a sample from one cat.
Annual Wellness Exams
Just like most humans, almost every pet will undergo a surgical procedure at some point in his or her life. Fortunately, our experienced doctors and technicians are trained to perform many types of elective and non-elective surgeries.
Our team and our facility are equipped to accommodate surgical patients from their initial evaluation and diagnosis, to developing a treatment plan, to managing recovery.
Anesthesia
When a pet has surgery, they require specialized attention before the procedure, during the procedure, and throughout recovery. Our veterinary surgeons and technicians prioritize your pet’s health, safety, and comfort during every stage of his or her treatment.
Prior to any anesthetic procedure, the veterinarian will examine your pet and run blood tests to check for underlying conditions like diabetes or heart, lung, kidney, and liver disease. We use the safest sedatives and anesthetics available, customizing treatment to each pet’s specific needs. We also tailor medication for post-operative pain management.
We use state-of-the-art equipment to monitor patients’ vital signs during all anesthetic procedures and during recovery. One of our experienced technicians will stay by your pet’s side, monitoring blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, alertness, and comfort.
All of our protocols adhere to the Anesthesia Guidelines outlined by the American Animal Hospital Association.
Recovery
Most pets have surgery in the morning and then spend time recovering under the close supervision of their doctor and techs. Usually, they can go home later the same day.
When you pick up your pet, one of our surgical techs will talk you through any post-operative pain medications, activity restrictions, incision care, and follow-up instructions.
We may send you and your pet home with an e-collar (a cone) to wear so they can’t lick their incision and/or stitches. In some cases, a soft “onesie” is a comfortable alternative—ask a tech if it’s an option for your pet!
A tech will give you a call the day after surgery, and you should feel free to call at any time if you have questions or concerns. We want your pet to have a safe and comfortable recovery.
Specialty Surgery
When a pet requires a most sophisticated surgical procedure, Board Certified surgeon Dr. Phil Pacchiana, DVM, MS, DACVS, scrubs in right here at Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital.
Trained at the University of Minnesota School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Pacchiana holds a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine and a Masters of Science in Veterinary Surgery, Anesthesiology and Radiology. He is Board Certified by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Dr. Pacchiana performs orthopedic procedures including cruciate repair, patella luxation repair, fracture repair, closed and open joint reduction, femoral head and neck excision, and limb amputation; soft tissue surgeries including nephrectomies, liver lobectomies, thoracotomies, exploratories, advanced cancer resections, brachycephalic surgery, hernia repairs, tumor resections, and reconstructive surgeries; and neurological procedures including hemilaminectomies and vertebral fracture repairs.
Dr. Pacchiana has performed thousands of orthopedic, soft tissue, and neurosurgical procedures and has experience in treating almost all surgical conditions in cats and dogs.
Dental health is one of the most important parts of your pet’s long-term well-being. An animal with healthy teeth has a healthier heart, healthier kidneys, healthier bones, healthier skin, and a healthier coat.
Common Signs of Dental Disease
Dental diseases are among the most common clinical condition occurring in adult dogs and cats. Do you recognize the signs?
Though pets with dental disease may exhibit these symptoms, it’s important to remember that pets with painful dental conditions do not always display obvious clinical signs. Also, many dental conditions develop gradually. That’s why routine checkups and at-home oral hygiene are so important. Our doctors examine your pet’s mouth during every wellness appointment and they can recommend an at-home dental care regimen for your pet.
Dental Anesthesia
Why do we use anesthesia for all dental procedures?
When humans visit the dentist, we can follow the dentist’s or hygienist’s instructions to “open” or to “hold still” for an x-ray. Our pets can’t.
We understand why the procedure is important and we recognize that any discomfort is temporary. Our pets don’t.
Anesthesia makes it possible for your veterinarian to thoroughly examine your pet’s mouth, including all the tissues and teeth. Then, they can use ultrasonic and manual equipment to clean (scale and polish) their teeth above and below the gumline.
They can also take x-rays and perform extractions, if necessary.
Learn more about how we use anesthesia safely and effectively for your pet’s health and comfort.
Acupuncture relieves pain and promotes healing by stimulating circulation, usually at a specific spot. Our trained veterinary acupuncturist has used acupuncture therapy to treat injuries and wounds, chronic conditions, and even some internal diseases. For example, it can dramatically reduce the painful symptoms of arthritis, kidney and liver diseases, and pancreatitis.
Laser acupuncture can provide all the benefits of traditional acupuncture therapy. Treatment sessions typically last between 20-40 minutes and don’t require any recovery time at all. Amazingly, we see pets relax during their session—some even doze off!—and many show improvement after their second or third treatment.
Unlike some medications, laser acupuncture doesn’t pose the risks of allergic reactions or adverse interactions with other drugs and won’t interfere with special dietary regimens. That means that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for most pets, no matter their age, size, condition, or temperament.
Our veterinary acupuncturist also uses nutraceuticals, vitamins, and other homeopathic supplements to augment the effects of acupuncture on your pet’s wellbeing.
When it comes to tools of the veterinary trade, we rely first and foremost on our skilled hands and eyes, but when a case calls for more advanced equipment, we are well-outfitted. Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital has invested in the latest diagnostic and therapeutic technologies to ensure your pet gets the best care available.
Therapeutic Laser
Our Class IV Therapeutic Laser is a remarkably effective and versatile tool. Using low levels of light to increase circulation directly at the site of an injury or wound, treatments like laser acupuncture reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing.
We use our laser to treat the symptoms of arthritis, hip and elbow dysplasia, inflammatory bowel disease, lick granulomas, injuries and wounds, otitis externa (swimmer’s ear), post-surgical incisions, and so much more.
A laser therapy session typically lasts 20-40 minutes. The procedure is non-invasive and treatments require no medication and virtually no recovery time. In fact, many pets relax during treatments—some even doze off!
Digital Ultrasound and Echocardiogram
Ultrasonography provides a “live look” at organs and localized areas, enabling us to identify normal and abnormal structures in the abdominal and chest cavities. We use our digital ultrasound to view the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, gallbladder, pancreas, bladder, kidneys and urinary tract, parts of the stomach and intestines, reproductive organs, adrenal glands, and lymph nodes.
Our Boarded Veterinary Practitioner performs digital ultrasonography to detect areas of excess fluids or inflammation. It’s one of the tools we may use to diagnose and assess cancers. We can also monitor an animal’s pregnancy.
Ultrasound imaging is unique because it can display a moving image. For example, when performing an echocardiogram, not only can the doctor see the heart, but also observe the movement of the heart valves and chambers, blood flow through the heart, and contractions of the heart muscle.
Our digital equipment can capture still images to save and print for further examination, as well. This technology also allows us to instantly send digital images to specialists for consultation.
The procedure is painless. We may clip or shave the area(s) where we’ll apply the ultrasound probe in order to get the clearest, most accurate images. Anesthesia is rarely required; sometimes, a mild sedative can help a particularly anxious or restless animal relax and stay still during the exam.
Digital X-Ray
X-ray is a valuable tool in diagnosing disease and injury. Our state-of-the-art digital X-ray equipment captures images quickly and allows us to see the bones and organs in greater detail than ever before. We use it to diagnose fractures, locate and identify foreign bodies, examine enlarged organs, and more.
We maintain excellent relationships with veterinary radiology specialists so that we can electronically share the digital images and receive quick consultations on complex cases. We can also email the images to you for your records.
Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
Endoscopy and colonoscopy are non-invasive diagnostic procedures that let us examine the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. We use our endoscope, camera, and video screen to look for inflammation, swelling, and other abnormalities. The equipment even allows us to take small tissue samples/biopsies for closer examination. We can also use our endoscope to look for foreign bodies (sticks, bones, toys, hairballs, etc.) and, in some cases, it may be possible to remove a foreign body.
Anesthesia is required for an endoscopic procedure, so we preform an examination and blood work in advance. Your pet will also need to be fasted for 12-24 hours before the procedure—your doctor will provide feeding instructions.
We encourage our clients to microchip their pets—it’s amazing that something about the size of a grain of rice can make such a dramatic difference to families and pets who have been separated.
Whenever an animal is microchipped at Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital, we register the pet’s microchip number with a national database called Avid PETtrac™.
Click here to learn more about how Avid’s PETtrac™ Pet Recovery Network can help reunite lost pets with their families
At Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital, we also issue complimentary identification cards for pets who have had their annual wellness exam and are up-to-date on all vaccines. You will receive a card for your wallet—similar to a driver’s license—with a photo, vital identification information, microchip number, detailed vaccine history, and your contact information, as well as ours. You’ll also receive a small tag for your keyring.
My Pet is Missing—What Should I Do?
Contact Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital, local animal control offices, and other area veterinary practices.
If your pet was microchipped at Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital, log in to your Avid account to make sure the contact information associated with your pet’s microchip number is accurate. You may also call Avid PETtrac™. Avid may charge a fee for account updates.
If your pet was microchipped at Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital, report your lost pet to Avid online or by phone (1-800-336-AVID.)
Post flyers in the neighborhood where your pet was last seen. Include your phone number, a photo of your pet, the date and location where he or she was last seen. Keep your message short and simple. Make sure your flyers are easy to read from across the street. Use brightly colored paper or cardstock and protect your posters from the elements with sheet protectors.
Share your pet’s information on local social media.
If you see your missing pet, be patient. Sit down, do not call out, and do not make direct eye contact. He or she may be anxious and frightened, so let him or her approach you.
I Found a Stray Pet—What Should I Do?
Contact Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital and the local animal control office. The owner may have already reported their missing pet. We can scan the pet for a microchip and use the number to reconnect it with his or her owner.
If you can safely approach the animal, check for a collar and tags with a name, phone number, or any other information.
Report the found pet to Avid online or over the phone (1-800-336-AVID.)
We’re pleased to offer boarding and medical boarding services for current Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital clients. We have dedicated spaces to accommodate cats, dogs, exotic pets, and animals with special needs. Our whole team works together to make sure every pet is happy, healthy, and safe during their stay.
Please note that our boarding services are only available to our current clients.
All boarded pets are cared for under the direct supervision of our doctors and veterinary techs. The medical team’s daily hospital rounds always include a visit to the boarding wing to check on our guests. A doctor or a vet tech administers all necessary medications.
Our team of experienced kennel technicians attends to boarders’ routine care throughout their stay. They stick to each boarder’s mealtime routine, keep everyone comfortable with soft bedding, and spend quality time with each pet every day. They walk every dog on-leash in our fenced-in outdoor space 4-5 times daily—rain or shine. A kennel tech lives on the premesis.
Please feel free to request a tour of our facility!
Policies
Additional fees apply per medication dispensed. Please bring medications in their original containers (do not sort into plastic baggies or pill organizers.)
Animals found to have fleas or intestinal parasites will be treated appropriately and charged standard fees.
We accommodate animals with illnesses or conditions that require special monitoring or treatment (e.g. cancer/chemotherapy, diabetes, epilepsy, geriatric pets, post-operative patients, etc.) Please inquire for details and rates.
We offer bathing, medicated bathing, and de-matting services. Please inquire for details and rates.
We serve a balanced and palatable diet of Purina® and Hill’s® foods in the kennel. If you prefer, you are welcome to provide your pet’s own food and feeding instructions. For the safety of our staff, we ask that you do not bring raw diets. We will be happy to discuss alternative meals.
We supply ample soft bedding to keep your pet comfortable during their stay. If you’d like to bring a bed, a blanket, or a favorite toy from home, you may—please note that we cannot guarantee their return.
You may bring treats or toys for your companion to enjoy. Our staff and doctors assess all treats and toys; if they pose any safety risk, we will set them aside and return them to you when you pick up your pet.
Required Vaccinations & Tests
We recommend that all animals due for vaccines and wellness visits are seen by a doctor prior to boarding. When you call to schedule, we’ll review your pet’s health record with you you’ll know what vaccines or tests your pet will need before they arrive for boarding.
If your pet is not up-to-date when they arrive, we will administer vaccines and perform tests as necessary. Additional charges apply.
Dogs
Cats
Hours
MONDAY 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
TUESDAY 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
WEDNESDAY 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
THURSDAY 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
FRIDAY 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
SATURDAY 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
SUNDAY CLOSED
Puppies who socialize with different people and dogs and explore new environments when they’re young are more likely to grow up to be confident, adaptable adult dogs!
We hold Puppy Playtime in our on-site kennel once a day, five days a week. It’s a great opportunity for your new pet to explore a new space, try some new toys, meet new people, work off some of that puppy energy, and enjoy some supervised play with other dogs their age.
Please note that Puppy Playtime is only open to our current clients.
What is Puppy Playtime?
Puppies must be old enough to have their Rabies vaccine and may be up to one-year old. We will group puppies appropriately by size. You can even arrange for your puppy to come for the same session as one of their friends!
All puppies must be current patients at Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital.
During each three-hour session, your puppy will have time to play and socialize with other puppies who have had their Rabies and Kennel Cough vaccines. All puppies will spend time with our experienced, friendly, attentive kennel techs. Puppies may play outside or inside, depending on the weather. They’ll be able to explore new surroundings, hear new sounds, smell new smells, and get comfortable around new people.
Call our front desk (203-438-8878) for more information or to reserve your spot. You can schedule in advance or as late at the morning of your preferred session.
Please note that clients are not permitted to attend as sessions are held in our on-site kennel.
You make important choices about your pet’s health at every mealtime! If you have questions about how to choose what food to feed your pet, how much, and how often, we can help.
A proper diet offers a variety of health and wellness benefits. It is a central part of maintaning a healthy weight, which is one of the most common health concerns for animals of all ages, and can be a challenge for many pet owners, as well!
Additionally, there are specialized diets formulated to manage kidney disease, arthritis, sensitive stomachs, allergies, hairballs, urinary issues, and more.
With the right formula and flavor, even the choosiest eaters and pets with specialized needs can enjoy a balanced, tasty, nutritious diet.
Weight Management
Weight management is one of the most common health concerns for animals of all ages. Our veterinarians can help you determine your pet’s ideal weight and recommend ways to reach and maintain a healthy size.
Studies have shown that 59% of cats and 55.8% of dogs fall into the “overweight” or “obese” categories on the standard Body Condition Scoring (BCS) systems, which assess pets based on body shape, features, and proportions, rather than only by a number on the scale.
Learn more about Body Condition Scoring here.
Cats and dogs who are overweight are at an increased risk of chronic inflammation, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, joint problems, kidney disfunction, metabolic and endocrine diseases, respiratory disorders, and various cancers.
On the other hand, many pets who maintain a healthy weight enjoy higher energy levels, better mobility, and a sustained quality of life into their senior years.
Our medical staff can discuss food selection, serving size, feeding schedule, and activity level best for your pet. We can also recommend habits for families who want to keep their pets healthy and fit. We want to keep their bodies and appetites healthy throughout every stage of their lives.
Order Pet Food Online
We stock select varieties of canine and feline pet foods and treats from Hill’s®, Purina®, and Royal Canin®, including prescription diets, in our hospital. For added convenience, we also currently participate in home delivery services by Hill’s and Purina.
Hills
We stock a variety of Hill’s Prescription Diet and Science Diet foods for cats and dogs.
Hill’s offers online ordering and home delivery through their Hill’s to Home program. Click here to begin registration! As soon as a doctor approves your pet’s prescription, you’ll be able to place your first order. You can also call us at 203-438-8878 and we’ll help you get set up in just a few minutes. Once you’re registered, you can log in and manage your account and order food at hillstohome.com with any computer or mobile device.
Click here to register!
The benefits of Hill’s to Home include:
Free shipping with no minimum order
Orders ship via UPS in 3-4 business days
Track shipments online
Discounts when you choose autoship
Manage your account 24/7 through a secure and mobile-friendly website
100% satisfaction guaranteed or your money back + easy returns
Purina
We stock a select variety of canine and feline Purina diets. We can also order Purina products for your pet and hold them at reception for one week. Purina pet food ships to our hospital via common carrier—please allow 4-6 business days.
Purina offers online ordering and home delivery through their Vet Direct program!
The benefits of Vet Direct include:
Free shipping with no minimum order
Orders ship directly to your home via UPS in 3-4 business days
Schedule deliveries with the autoship program
Manage your account online from any computer or mobile device
Products backed by Purina’s 100% satisfaction guarantee
You can sign up at proplanvetdirect.com using Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital’s clinic ID (S8LWY) or our zip code (06877).
Royal Canin
We stock a select variety of canine and feline Royal Canin diets. We’re also happy to order Royal Canin products for your pet and hold them at reception for one week. Royal Canin pet food ships to our hospital via common carrier—please allow 4-6 business days.
We will let you know when online ordering is available for Royal Canin!
