I’ve never been to you before – how do I make my first appointment?

Call us on 03 358 4407 and talk to our reception staff about signing up to our clinic and making your first appointment.

What do I do in an emergency if the clinic is closed?

After hours and on Sundays, you should contact the After Hours Veterinary Clinic on 03 366 1052. They are located at 146 Disraeli Street. After Hours will send all information about your pet’s treatment to us so we can continue care.

What happens if my pet needs to be put to sleep?

This is a quiet and painless procedure that means your pet won’t need to suffer with pain or serious health issues. Talk to us about making a plan for your pet.

Do you do house calls?

No, we encourage you to bring your pets to our clinic so we can give them the best care with our facilities and equipment. If you can’t transport your pet, ask friends and family for help or talk to us about options.

Do you have payment options?

Payment is required at the time of your appointment or treatment, usually just before you take your pet home.

Avonhead provide an alternative payment option. Afterpay offers interest free payment plans for your Avonhead Vets purchases. Buy your products and/or treatment today and pay it off in four equal, interest free instalments fortnightly over 6 weeks.First payment is made at the time of your purchase. Afterpay will pay Avonhead Vets on your behalf.

You’re also provided with an Afterpay virtual account so for your next purchase, all you need to do is sign-in to your digital wallet, confirm and pay. There’s no more need to use your credit card or seek a loan elsewhere.

It’s simple and easy to use.

  • Afterpay will charge an initial $10 late fee and a further $7 if the payment remains unpaid 7 days after the due date.

Please refer to your contract with Afterpay for further information on terms and conditions. Click here for more imnformation on Afterpay 

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How often should I bring my pet to the vet?

We recommend a general health checkup every year to make sure there aren’t any hidden issues. This also gives us a chance to check your pet’s teeth and make sure vaccinations are up to date. Some pets with health issues will need more regular checkups – talk to us about managing this.

What can I do to prepare my pet for surgery?

Different surgeries have different requirements about what food and drink is allowed so talk to the vet first. In general, you should keep your pet calm and relaxed, and feed them their normal food.

What animals do you treat?

Dogs and cats.

How much do vaccinations cost?

The cost depends on the type of vaccination. Please call us on 03 358 4407 to discuss what vaccine your pet is due for, and what it will cost.

Why should I microchip my pet?

Microchipping is the best way to find your pet if it gets lost or stolen, and get it back to you and your family. Every pet that is found and taken to a vet or a welfare agency such as the SPCA gets scanned for a microchip. If they are microchipped, the agency or vet can quickly contact the owner and return the pet.

How much does microchipping cost?

Dogs are $45 for us to microchip. You can also get dogs microchipped for free at the Christchurch City Council. No appointment needed, just go to the Christchurch City Animal Shelter at 10 Metro Place, Bromley, on Wednesday between 11am and midday.

Cats are $57 for us to microchip, which includes the registration with New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR). Learn more about NZCAR.

How much does it cost to de-sex my pet?

The cost of de-sexing varies as it depends on your pet’s sex, age, weight and whether their procedure is ‘routine’. Non-routine de-sexings such as females being on heat, had a litter, or retained testicles, are additional to the de-sexing costs. Please call us on 03 358 4407 to discuss the costs for de-sexing your cat or dog with us.

Do you recommend pet insurance?

Absolutely! Check out our information and recommendations on pet insurance.

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

We recommend brushing at least twice a week, or even every day to prevent dental disease. If you start at a young age, your dog will learn to look forward to tooth brushing. If you can’t manage regular tooth brushing, talk to us about dental foods and other prevention methods.