What to Expect For Your Appointment

Your scheduled visit to the Community Practice Service at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals begins with a check-in at the reception desk. New patients will be asked to fill out a small amount of paperwork.

You will be greeted in the waiting room by a technician, who will take you and your pet to a private examination room. Our appointments generally take one hour, and we do our best to keep on schedule. 

In the examination room, a senior student will collect information about your pet's history and current health and then perform a physical examination. There will likely be one or two younger students to observe and conduct examinations as well. We appreciate your patience and understanding in allowing these future veterinarians to interact with you and your pet.

After the physical examination, the senior student will consult with a faculty member, who may conduct another examination. Together, the faculty member and student will make a plan for the health care and return to the room to discuss next steps, costs and options. The senior student working with the faculty member will then conduct any procedures required and dispense vaccinations and medications as needed. 

If the animal needs further testing or consultation with another service, they may be transferred or admitted to the hospital.