Looking for a New Vet in Amherst, NS? What to Know Before Your First Visit

Just moved to Amherst, or looking for a new veterinarian in Cumberland County? Choosing a vet is a big decision, and knowing what to expect makes it easier. Here is everything you need to know about becoming a client at Cumberland County Animal Hospital, from registering your pet to paying for care.

As one new client, Kim W., put it after her first visit: "I feel we made the right choice by signing our pets up with Cumberland County Animal Hospital."

About our hospital

Cumberland County Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary hospital at 16 Ancestral Drive in Amherst, Nova Scotia, with more than 20 years of experience caring for pets. Here is what you can expect:

• Accredited care: We are accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and the Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association (NSVMA). Learn more about our certifications.
• A well-equipped facility: Our hospital includes a surgical suite, a dental area, an in-house lab and digital x-ray technology.
• Pets we treat: We primarily treat dogs and cats, and we also provide care for small mammals and birds.
• A full range of services: Wellness exams, vaccinations, dentistry, diagnostics, surgery and urgent care. See all of our services.

Our team includes veterinarians Dr. Mike, Dr. Franny and Dr. Monique, along with our registered veterinary technicians and support staff. Meet our team.

How to become a client

Fill out our new client form and we will call or email you to set up an appointment. You will hear back from us within 24 hours, Monday to Friday. You can also submit the registration form in advance so your pet is on file for future visits, even if you plan to call later to book.

Want to see the hospital first? We welcome you to visit and meet our team. Please call ahead to schedule a tour so someone is available to show you around and answer your questions.

Your pet's first visit

Please try to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your pet's first visit. This gives us time to make sure your information is correct and lets the doctor review anything you have brought. It also gives your pet extra time to get familiar with the hospital, so our staff can help them feel comfortable.

What to bring

• Any papers, booklets or previous veterinary records
• Your pet's medications, including supplements
• Information about your pet's diet and health history
• A written list of your questions and concerns. We love questions.

What to expect

• Check in at reception.
• Your pet is weighed at every visit.
• If your pet needs treatment, we will give you a detailed estimate and review your options. Together, we will decide what works best for you and your pet before any procedure begins.

After an appointment, our team often follows up with a call to make sure your pet is doing well.

Paying for your pet's care

We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, debit and cash. Payment is due at the time of service.

Humm financing

We understand that veterinary care is an important investment in your pet's health. To give clients more flexibility, we offer payment plans through Humm:

• Eligible clients can apply online in just a few minutes.
• You can receive a credit decision in as little as 7 minutes.
• Humm offers financing for veterinary care of up to $30,000.
• Our 6 and 12 month zero-interest payment plans are available on eligible purchases.
• A soft credit check is required.

You can apply on our financing page.

Stay connected with the Pet Portal

Once your pet is a patient, you can log in to our Pet Portal to check vaccination due dates, request medication refills and keep your contact information up to date.

Care for families across Cumberland County

If your pet does not travel well, we offer house calls every Tuesday from 1 to 4pm within Amherst town limits. We also hold monthly remote clinics in Tatamagouche and quarterly remote clinics in Parrsboro. Read more about house calls and remote clinics.

Common questions from new clients

Are you accepting new clients?

Yes. Fill out our new client form and we will call or email you within 24 hours, Monday to Friday, to set up an appointment.

What are your hours?

We are open Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 6:00pm. We are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, debit and cash, and payment is due at the time of service. We also offer financing through Humm, including 6 and 12 month zero-interest payment plans on eligible purchases.

Can I tour the hospital before my first visit?

Absolutely. Please call ahead at (902) 612-2520 to schedule a tour so someone is available to show you around.

What should I bring to my pet's first appointment?

Bring any previous veterinary records, your pet's medications and supplements, information about their diet and health history, and a list of your questions.

Welcome to Cumberland County Animal Hospital

We love meeting new pets and their families. To get started, fill out our new client form, book an appointment, call (902) 612-2520, or email info@cumberlandvet.ca.