Clinic Policies

We operate primarily by appointment to allow ample time for each patient and scheduled procedure. We make every effort to see clients on time and appreciate your understanding when occasional daytime emergencies arise. Appointments can be made by calling the office during business hours, or you can submit an appointment request through Vello.

For your convenience, drop-off appointments are available. This allows you to bring your pet at a time that works best for you and leave them with us for care. Drop-offs are typically scheduled in the morning so our doctor can examine your pet between appointments. Once the exam is complete, we’ll call you to review findings, treatment options, and discharge instructions.

When possible, Dr. Gilbertson is available for house call visits during regular appointment hours. Additional travel and service fees apply based on distance and time required. Please contact the clinic for availability and pricing. For everyone’s safety, we require that all patients be up to date on vaccinations.  

We understand that veterinary visits can be stressful for some dogs. Anxiety or fear may lead to behaviors such as growling, snapping, or attempts to bite. Our top priority is the safety of your pet, you, and our staff.

While we are not “pro muzzle,” we are firmly anti-bite. If needed, we may gently place a muzzle to ensure everyone’s safety. If your dog becomes too anxious or defensive for us to continue the visit safely, we may pause and discuss the next steps. Sometimes, pre-visit medication helps make future appointments calmer and more successful.

Dog bites are serious and can cause lasting injury, both physically and emotionally. We appreciate your understanding and partnership in keeping visits safe and positive for everyone. 

For the safety of all patients, a valid veterinarian–client–patient relationship (VCPR) is required for any prescription medication. This means your pet must have a current exam with our veterinarian before medication can be prescribed or refilled.

Some medications may require periodic rechecks or lab work as recommended by the doctor.  Refill requests can be made by phone or through our online pharmacy, Blue Rabbit. Please allow 24 hours for processing.

Gilbertson Veterinary Services recommends year-round heartworm prevention for all dogs. To ensure safe and effective use of these medications, we require a current annual heartworm test before prescribing preventatives. This allows us to confirm your dog’s status each year and continue prevention with confidence. If you have questions about testing, timing, or choosing the right preventative for your pet, we’re always happy to help.

Emergencies can be stressful, and we want you to feel prepared. During regular business hours, we’ll do our best to accommodate urgent cases.

When the clinic is closed, we partner with VetTriage, a 24/7 telehealth service staffed by licensed veterinarians. If you have an urgent concern after hours, go to www.vettriage.com or call 1-800-940-1921. A VetTriage veterinarian will assess your pet and help you decide the next steps for care.

If your pet needs in-person emergency treatment beyond what Gilbertson Veterinary Clinic can provide, we recommend Red River Animal Emergency Hospital (RRAEH) in Fargo, ND. They are fully equipped to handle urgent and specialized cases. Having contacts for both VetTriage and RRAEH handy ensures you’re prepared to act quickly when it matters most.