How Do I Make an Appointment at an Animal Hospital?
Last reviewed 2026-07-07
Since booking methods vary by animal hospital, it's best to call ahead and confirm hours and appointment availability before you visit.
How do I make an appointment at an animal hospital?
Because each animal hospital handles bookings differently, the most reliable approach is to call ahead and confirm the clinic's hours, whether appointments are available, and how to book one. Some hospitals require reservations while others take patients on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to check directly before setting your visit time.
What's the typical booking process, and why does it vary by hospital?
Many animal hospitals take appointments by phone: you call to confirm hours, book a date and time that works for you, and then visit at that time. Some clinics also offer online booking, so it's worth checking what each hospital provides. Whether a hospital uses a reservation system can depend on its size, the types of animals it treats, staffing, and how it's run, and some clinics accept walk-ins without phone reservations in order to prioritize emergency cases — so it's best to check with the hospital before visiting.
What to confirm with the hospital before your visit
- Hours of operation (weekdays, weekends, holidays)
- Whether appointments are available and how to book one
- Types of animals treated (dogs, cats, other pets)
- Whether emergency care is available, and during what hours
- Any documents or items needed for a first visit
Using the 114pet animal hospital directory
The 114pet directory draws on public data from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety to provide each animal hospital's location, phone number, and year it was established. It doesn't include details such as hours or the types of animals treated, so calling directly is the most accurate way to confirm those. If it's your first time visiting a particular hospital, briefly describing your pet's age, type, and current condition when you call can help the staff tell you what to bring and what wait times to expect.
This is general information. Please confirm the exact diagnosis, costs, and schedule directly with an animal hospital or veterinarian.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I just walk into an animal hospital without an appointment?
- It depends on the hospital. Some clinics strictly require reservations, while others will see walk-in patients in emergencies. It's best to call ahead and confirm whether a reservation is required.
- What if I need care at night or on a weekend?
- Hospitals offering evening or weekend care are often limited, so call ahead to confirm availability. Some areas may have animal hospitals that offer night or emergency care, so it can help to ask and get guidance from a veterinarian.
- How do I pay for treatment?
- Many hospitals accept a variety of payment methods, such as cash, card, or bank transfer. When you call ahead to book, it's a good idea to ask about payment options too so you're prepared.