Altman Animal Hospital: Veterinary Care in Columbia

What Altman Animal Hospital offers

Altman Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary clinic located in Columbia that treats dogs, cats, and other companion animals. The hospital provides routine preventive care, surgical procedures, dental work, and emergency services. They handle vaccinations, wellness exams, spaying and neutering, orthopedic surgery, and dental cleanings alongside treatment for acute illnesses and injuries.

The facility operates with a team of licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians. They use digital radiography and other diagnostic equipment on-site, which means many test results come back the same day rather than requiring a referral elsewhere. The hospital also stocks medications and supplies, so prescriptions can often be filled immediately after your visit.

Key Takeaways

• Altman Animal Hospital provides preventive care, surgery, dental work, and emergency treatment for dogs, cats, and companion animals in Columbia.
• The hospital has licensed veterinarians on staff and uses in-house diagnostic equipment like digital radiography to speed up diagnosis.
• You can schedule routine appointments online or by phone, and the hospital accepts most major pet insurance plans.
• Emergency services are available, though you should call ahead when possible so the staff can prepare for your arrival.

Scheduling a routine appointment

To schedule a wellness exam, vaccination, or other routine visit, contact the hospital directly by phone or through their website. First-time patients typically need to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete intake paperwork, which includes your pet's medical history and your contact information. Bring your pet's previous medical records if they have seen another veterinarian, as this helps the Altman team understand any ongoing health concerns.

Routine appointments usually last 30 to 45 minutes. During a wellness exam, the veterinarian will check your pet's weight, temperature, heart rate, and overall body condition, then discuss any questions or concerns you have. If vaccines or preventive treatments are due, the veterinarian will recommend them and explain what each one protects against.

Surgical and dental services

Altman Animal Hospital performs spaying, neutering, and other elective surgeries on-site. Pre-surgical bloodwork is typically recommended, especially for older pets, to check organ function before anesthesia. The hospital will give you specific instructions about fasting before surgery—usually no food after midnight the night before—and will call you with updates during the procedure.

Dental cleanings are also performed at the hospital under anesthesia. Dental disease is common in pets and can lead to serious infections if left untreated. The veterinarian can discuss your pet's dental health during a regular exam and recommend cleaning if tartar buildup or other problems are present. Post-operative care instructions are provided for all surgical procedures.

Emergency and urgent care

Altman Animal Hospital accepts emergency cases during regular business hours. If your pet has a sudden injury, difficulty breathing, severe vomiting, or other urgent symptoms, call the hospital immediately. Calling ahead allows the staff to prepare and ensures a veterinarian is available when you arrive. If the emergency occurs outside regular hours, ask the hospital staff for a referral to an after-hours emergency clinic in the Columbia area.

Common emergencies include trauma from accidents, ingestion of toxic substances, urinary blockages, and severe allergic reactions. The hospital has the equipment and medications needed to stabilize most emergencies and provide initial treatment. Depending on the severity, you may be referred to a specialty hospital for advanced care.

Insurance and payment options

Altman Animal Hospital accepts most major pet insurance plans. Bring your insurance card and policy information to your appointment so the staff can verify coverage. Many plans cover a percentage of the bill after you meet a deductible, though coverage varies by plan and by procedure. The hospital can often submit claims directly to your insurance company on your behalf.

The hospital also accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards. If cost is a concern, ask the veterinarian about payment plans or discuss less expensive treatment options. Some preventive services, like vaccines and flea prevention, are more affordable than treating advanced disease, so staying current on routine care can save money over time.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring your pet in a secure carrier or on a leash to prevent escape in the waiting room. Have your pet's microchip number available if they are microchipped, and bring any medications your pet is currently taking. If your pet has behavioral concerns—anxiety, aggression, or fear—mention this when scheduling so the staff can plan accordingly and make the visit as calm as possible.

For surgical procedures, follow all pre-operative instructions carefully. This typically means withholding food and water for a set period before surgery to reduce the risk of complications from anesthesia. Write down any questions you have before the appointment so you do not forget to ask them during your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment for a sick visit, or can I walk in?

Appointments are strongly recommended for sick visits to ensure a veterinarian is available when you arrive. Call the hospital to schedule as soon as possible. Walk-ins may be seen if the schedule allows, but you may have a longer wait.

What should I do if my pet needs care after hours?

Altman Animal Hospital operates during standard business hours. For emergencies outside those hours, call the hospital's main line—the voicemail message will direct you to an after-hours emergency clinic serving the Columbia area.

Can I get a prescription from Altman without bringing my pet in?

Veterinarians must examine a pet before prescribing medication. If your pet is due for a refill of a chronic medication, call the hospital to schedule a brief appointment or ask if a refill can be authorized based on recent exam records.

Does the hospital offer boarding or grooming services?

Contact the hospital directly to ask about boarding, grooming, or other services beyond veterinary medical care. Many veterinary clinics partner with local facilities or can recommend trusted providers in the area.