Dear Clients,
Like many of you we have experienced a number of unpredictable situations within the last year and a half. One of the biggest things that the veterinary industry is trying to adapt to is the extremely high volume in new patients, new puppies/kitten appointments and the acutely sick patient. In part, this is due to the record number of adoptions seen this last year. Currently, we are booking 2-3 weeks out for routine visits. The demand for veterinary care has increased at such a rapid rate that we are left caring for the increased number of animals without any matching increase in staff, doctors and technicians. We are truly doing the best we can to see patients in a timely manner. In addition, we have been seeing patients that we don’t normally see because other clinics are unable to. Our overflow in patient care is high at this point and some days we are physically unable to see your pet and as much as we hate to do so, we may have to refer you on. Most days we skip lunch and stay late in order to continue working on patients, return phone calls or emails or to follow up with previously seen patients. Often times, we have double booked the appointments so that patients can be seen – especially the sick ones.
Since we are doing everything that we can to provide the quality and personal care that you know, we ask in return that you be patient and kind when trying to schedule appointments, refill medications, wait for a return phone call or wait to be seen by the doctor or technician. Please allow for at least a day for prescription refills. We also ask to allow enough time for the doctors to return your call or email – if it’s not urgent, you may not hear from us that same day. If your pet is coming due for annual vaccinations or needs routine surgery, please call at least 3 weeks ahead to make your appointment. As a reminder, surgery drop offs are between 7:30-8:30 am the morning of the appointment unless a different time has been requested ahead of time. If you are unable to make your surgery or appointment time, please call as soon as possible to cancel and/or reschedule. We have a long list of people waiting for a cancelation so that they can be seen sooner.
Effective October 4th, there will be a “no show” charge for anyone not showing up to their appointment without calling ahead to cancel or reschedule. We apologize for this inconvenience, but the number of people not showing up to their appointment time is still high and there are many others that would gladly take that empty spot. In addition, if you are more than ten minutes late for your appointment, we reserve the right to reschedule you for a different day. We pride ourselves on the quality of care as well as allowing you adequate time with the doctor.
Please be kind and patient with everyone. We are trying the best we can to keep up with the demands placed on us while also trying to have time with our families outside of work. As always, we appreciate you, the client, and your loyal business. Without you all, we would have all kinds of free time! Just kidding (we wanted to make sure you were still paying attention). If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to call the office or send us an email.
Sincerely,
The Doctors and Staff at Montfort Veterinary Service
