Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions/answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at (515) 635-0095, or email us at heartofankeny@gmail.com.

What are your hours?

Hospital and Canine Club hours are listed at the bottom of our page.

Do I need to have an appointment?

We recommend calling ahead to schedule and appointment, so we can assure that our doctors and technicians have enough time to see and care for your pet. Emergencies and scheduled appointments always come first so there may be a wait if you do walk-in during business hours.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Cash, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express, Care Credit. We do NOT accept checks.

Can I make payments?

Full payment is required at the time of service. We do accept Care Credit as an alternative form of payment. Visit www.carecredit.com to see if you apply for coverage.

At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?

We recommend spaying or neutering anytime between 4 months and 10 months of age. Large and Giant breed dogs should ideally wait a little longer for this procedure. Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen is recommended (required in pets 5 years and older) prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

This is a blood test that is run here in our clinic prior to a pet's surgery. It tests organ functions and blood counts, and is done to assure that your pet should handle anesthesia appropriately. It is always strongly recommended for every pet, but is required in pets 5 years and older.

Is it a good idea to let my pet have at least one litter?

No, there is no advantage to letting your pet have one litter. However there are plenty of advantages to having you pet spayed or neutered at the recommended age. Recommended age depends on estimated adult weight. These advantages include decreasing the chances of mammary cancer later in life, the chance of cystic ovaries and uterine infections later in life, the desire to roam the neighborhood, the incidence of testicular cancer later in life, helping prevent spraying and marking, and decreasing the possibility of unwanted puppies or kittens.

What is your boarding and daycare facility like?

Our dog kennels are all indoor. We have 2 sizes of cages, and larger runs available. Deluxe dogs get daycare while they are here.  Daycare takes place generally in our outdoor lot, but will be indoors if the weather is unfavorable. Boarding dogs are walked 3 times daily. Cats are boarded in a separate area away from dogs to help minimize stimulation and stress. Blankets and food may be provided, but you are always welcome to bring your own. Large beds may not be able to be washed prior to your pet going home. Visit the boarding section of our page for more information. You are also welcome to stop in and tour our boarding facility anytime!