Refugee Canyon Veterinary Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Refugee Canyon Veterinary Services is committed to providing a smooth, stress-free experience for every pet and owner. Here are answers to our most frequently asked questions about veterinary care, boarding, grooming, and more.
Have more questions? Contact our Pataskala office anytime!
Boarding
What are the required vaccines to board my pet?
To keep all our guests safe and healthy, dogs must be up to date on DA2PP, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, and Rabies. Puppies should have received at least their first two booster shots before boarding.
Cats are required to be current on RCCP and Rabies vaccinations before their stay.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Please schedule all boarding ahead of time. We fill up quickly during summer and all holidays, so we encourage you to set boarding dates at least a month or more in advance to ensure your reservations can be made.
Is there an age requirement?
There is no specific age requirement for boarding. Your pet just needs to be current on all required vaccinations.
What do I need to bring with my pet for their stay?
We recommend bringing your pet’s regular food so they can stay on their normal diet while boarding. Switching to a new food during their stay can sometimes cause stomach upset or make them hesitant to eat, so sticking to what they’re used to is best. We can refrigerate food if needed.
You’re also welcome to bring a bed and a few favorite toys to help your pet feel at home.
Will the kennel medicate my dog?
For a fee of $5.50 per day, the kennel staff will administer medications.
What is your cancellation policy?
We request that you cancel your pets stay as soon as possible.
What are pickup and drop off times?
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
How often are dogs out of their kennels?
Dogs are walked 4 times a day in our privately fenced exercise yard (separate from other dogs).
Do you care for diabetic animals?
Yes, we care for diabetic pets and can help manage their condition safely and comfortably during their stay.
Can my dogs stay together during their stay?
Dogs from the same household can be placed in adjoining rooms with a connecting door.
Are the kennels heated and air conditioned?
Yes, our kennels are fully heated and air-conditioned to keep your pet comfortable year-round.
Grooming
When should my puppy come for the 1st groom?
We recommend bringing your puppy in for their first introductory groom at around 4 months of age.
How often should my dog get groomed?
Most dogs benefit from grooming every 6–8 weeks, though the exact frequency can vary depending on your dog’s coat type.
How long will my dog stay for a groom?
Drop-off is between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, and your dog will typically be ready to go home by early afternoon.
Will you brush out my dog's mats?
For safety and comfort, severe matting is best handled with a shave down. Brushing out mats can be painful for your dog and may cause skin irritation.
What vaccines are required to have my pet groomed?
Dogs must be up to date on DA2PP, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, and Rabies. Puppies should have received at least their first two booster shots before grooming.
How far in advance should I book a grooming appointment?
Grooming availability can vary depending on the time of year, so it’s best to call for current openings. We recommend booking your appointment at least a month in advance to secure your preferred time.
Why is regular grooming important?
Regular grooming helps maintain your pet’s skin and coat health, keeping them comfortable and looking their best.
Companion Animals
Do I have to make an appointment? Can I just walk in?
Yes, appointments are required. We do not accept walk-ins to ensure every pet receives proper attention and care.
Do you have payment plans?
We do not offer payment plans, but we do accept CareCredit for your convenience.
Are you taking new clients?
Yes! We are currently accepting new clients and would be happy to welcome you and your pet to our practice.
Do you offer emergency services?
We handle emergencies during clinic hours — please call for availability. For after-hours emergencies, call the clinic and follow the prompts for assistance.
How often should my pet have an exam?
We recommend annual wellness exams for young pets and twice-yearly exams for senior pets. Additional exams may be needed if your pet is experiencing illness or injury.
Do you offer home visits?
Yes, we offer home visits for medical care as well as end-of-life services.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Please bring your pet, a list of any medications they take, and any previous veterinary records to your appointment.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call the clinic as soon as possible so we can assist you and accommodate other pets.
Do you offer boarding?
Yes! We offer boarding services at our Pataskala location to keep your pet safe and comfortable while you’re away.
I got a new puppy. How soon should it have its 1st appointment?
We recommend scheduling your new puppy’s first appointment within a week of bringing them home to ensure a healthy start.
My pet had vaccines. How long should I wait before scheduling the next vaccine appointment?
We recommend waiting at least two weeks between vaccine appointments to ensure each shot is effective and safe for your pet.
Do you accept insurance?
We do not directly accept insurance, but you can submit a claim to your provider for reimbursement.
How do I get a prescription refill?
To request a prescription refill, call our clinic and follow the prompts to the prescription voicemail box. Leave a message with your pet’s name and the medication you need refilled.
How long do refills take?
Prescription refills typically take 24–48 hours to process.
What are your policies on seeing reactive/aggressive patients?
We prioritize the safety and comfort of all pets. Our team works with owners using fear-free techniques and, when necessary, may use chemical restraint to ensure a calm and safe visit for reactive or aggressive pets.