FAQs

APPOINTMENTS & HOURS

What are your standard opening hours at each Vet HQ clinic?

Vet HQ Darlinghurst is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 7:00 pm, and Saturdays until 4:00 pm.

Vet HQ Double Bay is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 7:00 pm, Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sundays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Both clinics are closed on public holidays unless you have a pre-booked appointment.

Is Vet HQ open on weekends or public holidays?

Yes, both clinics open on Saturdays, and Double Bay also opens on Sunday mornings. Public holidays are closed except for appointments arranged in advance. For urgent cases on weekends, please call ahead so our team can prepare.

How do I book, change or cancel an appointment at Vet HQ?

You can book online at any time or call reception during our opening hours. If you need to change or cancel your appointment, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a late-cancellation fee.

Do you offer same-day or urgent vet appointments?

We keep a small number of same-day slots for urgent concerns. The fastest way to secure an appointment is to phone the clinic directly, so our team can triage your pet and fit you in if appropriate.

Do you offer pet telehealth or phone advice calls?

For suitable concerns, our vets or nurses may offer telehealth consultations or advice calls. Some problems still need a physical examination, so we’ll let you know the best option when you get in touch.

What happens if my pet needs vet care after hours?

Neither clinic is staffed overnight. Stable patients may stay in the hospital with scheduled checks, or we may transport them to a nearby emergency service if they need continuous monitoring.

SERVICES & REFERRALS

What general vet services do you offer?

We provide complete GP care, including health checks, vaccinations, desexing, dentistry, diagnostics, and day-to-day medical and surgical treatment. Both clinics are purpose-built to support high-quality, longer appointments and personalised care.

Do you offer advanced diagnostic or treatment options?

Yes, we offer advanced imaging, medical care, and surgery, delivered by veterinarians with additional training and memberships. When needed, we collaborate with visiting specialists to treat pets on-site in a familiar environment.

Can you manage complex pet medical cases?

Yes. Several team members hold memberships or advanced certificates in areas such as medicine, surgery, and feline medicine. We diagnose and manage complex illnesses in-house and collaborate closely with external specialists as needed.

Do you provide feline-specific services?

Both clinics have purpose-built cat facilities, and Double Bay holds ISFM Gold Cat Friendly accreditation. We offer dedicated cat wards, separate waiting areas, feline-focused handling, and advanced feline medicine consultations.

Do you offer rehabilitation or physio services?

Rehabilitation and physio are part of Vet HQ’s evolving pet care services, including support for post-operative recovery, mobility, ageing pets and weight management. This program is expanding at Double Bay.

Does Vet HQ accept referrals from other vets?

Yes. We often collaborate with referring veterinarians for advanced imaging, second opinions, and the ongoing management of complex cases. Our team is happy to coordinate care and provide detailed updates.

FACILITIES & CAPABILITIES

What in-house diagnostic equipment do you have at Vet HQ?

Both clinics are equipped with advanced imaging, ultrasound, X-ray, and in-house blood testing facilities, as well as support for extended, detailed medical workups. This enables faster responses and more informed treatment decisions.

Do you have separate areas for cats and dogs?

Yes. Both clinics have feline-only wards and dedicated spaces to reduce stress for cats. Double Bay features a purpose-built cat hospital, while Darlinghurst offers a separate cat waiting room and cat-specific treatment areas.

Is parking available at your clinics?

Yes. Both clinics offer convenient and easy parking nearby. Double Bay also offers four dedicated parking spaces at the rear of the clinic, which is especially valuable during busy periods.

Can most pet procedures be done on-site?

Yes. Our goal is to provide comprehensive care under one roof. Most diagnostics, treatments, and surgeries are handled in-house. When specialist input is needed, we bring them in or collaborate remotely so your pet stays with the team who knows them best.

What happens if my pet needs overnight monitoring?

If your pet is stable and comfortable, they may be able to remain in our hospital for planned checks. Pets that require constant overnight monitoring are referred to a nearby emergency centre, and we assist with arranging safe transportation.

Are your vet clinics purpose-built?

Yes. Darlinghurst is a newer, purpose-built clinic with separate cat and dog zones. Double Bay features a purpose-built cat hospital and is undergoing upgrades as part of Vet HQ’s commitment to evolving with the needs of clients and pets.

PAYMENTS & INSURANCE

What payment methods does Vet HQ accept?

We accept major credit cards and offer third-party payment options, such as Zip-style services, at Darlinghurst, where they are used more frequently. If you’re unsure what’s available, our team can guide you before your appointment.

Do you require full payment for vet services on the day?

Yes, payment is required at the time of your pet’s consultation or procedure. If your pet needs unexpected treatment, we’ll walk you through the costs and available payment options before proceeding.

Can you help with pet insurance claims?

Yes, we can assist with processing your insurance paperwork or provide detailed invoices for claiming purposes. If your insurer offers registered trademark claiming, our reception team can let you know what’s possible at your clinic.

Do you offer estimates before treatment?

Always. We discuss recommended treatment plans and provide written estimates, so you understand the options and expected costs. We’ll never proceed with anything you haven’t approved.

Do prices vary between the two clinics?

Our pricing structure is consistent across both locations. If your pet has ongoing care at both clinics, we ensure your records and estimates follow them seamlessly.

Can you provide guidance on managing ongoing vet treatment costs?

Yes. For long-term conditions, we can help you plan follow-up visits, discuss cost-effective options, and explain what’s essential versus optional so you can make informed decisions.

PET WELLNESS

How often should my pet have a health check?

Most pets benefit from a full health check at least once a year. Seniors and pets with chronic conditions or certain breeds may require more frequent visits. We’ll let you know what’s best for your pet’s stage of life.

What pet vaccinations do you recommend?

We follow Australian vaccination guidelines for dogs and cats and tailor schedules based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors. At each appointment, your vet will discuss what’s due and why.

Do you offer pet dental checks and cleaning?

Yes, dental care is part of our routine services. We offer dental assessments, scaling and polishing procedures, and advanced dental treatments when required. Regular checks help prevent pain and long-term disease.

Do you provide pet preventive care for ageing pets?

Yes. Both clinics offer senior health checks, mobility support, pain management, and geriatric-focused nursing care. Our upcoming rehab and physio services will further support older pets at Double Bay.

Can you help a pet with behaviour concerns?

Yes, we offer behaviour consultations for everyday issues like anxiety, toileting changes, and settling new pets. If needed, we can refer to trusted trainers or behaviour specialists.

Do you offer nutrition or weight-management advice for pet owners?

Absolutely. We can tailor feeding plans, run weight-loss programs, and support pets that require nutrition adjustments due to age, allergies, or medical conditions. Our rehab program at Double Bay also supports exercise-based weight management.

REHABILITATION

What is veterinary rehabilitation and how does it help pets?

Veterinary rehabilitation uses targeted therapies, such as physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, laser therapy and structured exercise, to improve mobility, reduce pain and support healing. It benefits pets recovering from surgery, living with arthritis, managing chronic pain or simply needing improved strength and fitness.

How soon after surgery can my pet start rehabilitation?

Most pets can begin rehabilitation very early in their recovery, often within a few days of surgery depending on your veterinarian’s recommendation. Early intervention helps reduce swelling, protect healing tissues and prevent muscle loss, leading to a smoother, faster recovery.

Can rehabilitation help pets with arthritis or chronic pain?

Yes. Rehabilitation is one of the most effective long-term management tools for osteoarthritis and chronic pain. Modalities like laser therapy, PEMF, hydrotherapy and targeted strengthening exercises help reduce inflammation, improve joint function and enhance overall comfort.

Is rehabilitation suitable for senior pets?

Absolutely. Senior pets often experience stiffness, weakness and reduced mobility. Gentle, tailored rehab programs help maintain strength, balance and confidence, allowing older pets to stay active and enjoy a better quality of life.

Does my pet need a referral from a veterinarian?

Rehabilitation is delivered under veterinary direction, so a referral or initial veterinary assessment ensures your pet receives safe, appropriate and medically aligned care.

Our team works closely with your primary vet throughout the process.

What types of therapies are used in pet rehabilitation?

Common therapies include underwater treadmill, physiotherapy, manual therapy, Class IV laser, PEMF, acupuncture, dry needling, strength and conditioning exercises, weight management programs and tailored home-exercise plans.

How many rehabilitation sessions will my pet need?

The number of sessions depends on your pet’s condition, goals and response to treatment. Some pets benefit from shortterm programs, while others, such as those with arthritis or chronic conditions, may require ongoing support.

Can rehabilitation help with pet weight loss?

Yes. Controlled, low-impact exercise combined with nutrition guidance helps overweight pets lose weight safely without stressing their joints. Weight loss also reduces pain and improves mobility.

Is hydrotherapy safe for all pets?

Underwater treadmill therapy is safe for most pets when supervised by trained professionals. It is especially beneficial for pets with arthritis, postsurgical patients and those needing low-impact conditioning. Your pet will be assessed to ensure hydrotherapy is appropriate.

What should I expect during my pet’s first rehab appointment?

Your pet will receive a full assessment, including mobility evaluation, pain scoring, gait analysis and discussion of their medical history. From there, a personalised treatment plan is created, outlining recommended therapies, frequency and expected outcomes.