FAQs

What are the hours of operation?

The hospital is open to receive clients from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for discharges only. Acupuncture services are available for Saturday appointments.

Is the Small Animal Hospital open 24 hours a day for emergencies?

The UF Small Animal Hospital is open for emergencies 24 hours a day and holidays. Afterhours calls are answered by an onsite emergency clinician or ICU technician. In addition, we provide 24/7 care to hospitalized patients.

What services does the UF Small Animal Hospital provide?

The UF Small Animal Hospital is home to a wide range of veterinary specialty services, all staffed by board-certified specialists, residents and interns, and supported by certified veterinary technicians. Clinical services include:

  • Acupuncture
  • Anesthesia and Pain Management
  • Behavioral Therapy
  • Cardiology
  • Clinical Nutrition
  • Dermatology
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Emergency and Critical Care
  • Integrative and Mobility Medicine
  • Internal Medicine
  • Neurology
  • Oncology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Primary Care and Dentistry
  • Rehabilitation
  • Soft Tissue Surgery
  • Zoological Medicine

How do I find the UF Small Animal Hospital?

See the Directions and Map page

Where do I park?

We have free parking for our clients in a parking lot right in front of the hospital.

Do I need to do anything before my appointment?

If applicable, please have your pet’s veterinarian fax any/all records pertaining to the reason (diagnosis) for your appointment. We will also need a copy of your pet’s current vaccine records.

How do I receive a copy of my pet’s medical record?

You may contact the Medical Records Department to request copies of your pet’s medical record by dialing (352) 392-2235 for all small animals including avians and exotics. Medical Records staff will indicate the charges for processing photo copies and they will fax and/or mail a Release of Information consent form to you to be completed prior to processing your request.

How long can I expect to wait when I arrive?

We make every attempt to keep the schedule running on time. However, due to emergencies, there may be a delay. We give every client thorough, individualized attention.

Does the UF Small Animal hospital see patients for general services or just specialties?

Yes, our Primary Care and Dentistry service can provide for your pet’s regular health care needs.

Why do you have only morning appointments on some services?

Appointments are made in the morning so that the afternoon can be dedicated for diagnostic procedures.

Why must I fast my animal prior to my appointment?

Many test and procedures that we do require patients to be fasted for optimal interpretation of results. In addition, we recommend pets be fasted in case sedation or anesthesia is needed during the visit.

Feeding Instructions:

Unless otherwise directed, if your pet is seeing Dermatology, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Oncology, Orthopedic Surgery, or Soft Tissue Surgery, please do not feed your pet (food) after midnight on the night before his/her appointment (unless your pet is diabetic); Water is allowed (as much as desired).  Medications can be taken as prescribed.

If your pet is seeing Cardiology, Integrative and Mobility Medicine, Ophthalmology, or our Exotic/Zoo Medicine services, then food and water is allowed unless otherwise directed.

Do you have a leash policy?

Yes, all dogs that enter the hospital must be leashed for the safety of all patients, owners and the hospital team. Flexi leashes should be locked at the shortest length.

Cats must be restrained appropriately in a carrier or on a leash.  We are a cat friendly practice and consider the unique needs of cats in waiting and examination rooms to make your cat as comfortable as possible.

If you are bringing in an exotic animal, please use the same precautions and use an appropriate travel carrier.

Who works with my pet?

A dedicated team consisting of board-certified veterinary specialists; residents and interns (who are graduate veterinarians undergoing additional training in a specialty area); third and fourth-year veterinary students (who work under the direct supervision of our veterinary faculty); and veterinary technicians.

University of Florida

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As part of both the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and UF Health, Veterinary Medicine is dedicated to advancing animal, human and environmental health through teaching, research, extension and patient care.

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Animal Hospitals

Need animal care? Visit the UF Small Animal and Large Animal Hospitals. From dogs, cats, birds and exotics to horses, cattle, llamas, pigs and many other large farm or food animals, our experienced veterinary staff is ready to assist.

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