What to expect
The University of Missouri Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital Farm Animal Service
offers a unique combination of routine primary care and high end referral services
to owners throughout Missouri. You do not need to be referred by your local veterinarian.
Please call us to set up an appointment at 573 882 6857. Please check in at the
desk prior to unloading. If you are bringing an individual that has a strong herd
instinct (i.e. sheep, alpacas) we recommend bringing a companion.
The more information that you can provide for us before or during your appointment,
the more efficient we can be during your visit. You are welcome to call in advance
to provide initial information about your animal(s). If you are being referred by
a veterinarian, we often like to hear from your veterinarian before your visit so
that we can discuss their findings. Bear in mind that this is a teaching hospital
and our students need to develop history taking skills so there may be some repetition
on your part.
When you check in at the Admissions Office, we will notify the clinicians that you
are here, call for a technician or handler to help you unload, and complete any
necessary paperwork. The office staff will review hospital policies for payment
and visits at this time.
Your Medical Team
You will be met by one or more of our care team. The team includes a senior faculty member (green coveralls), one or two house officers (graduate veterinarians in advanced residency or internship programs also in green coveralls), a veterinary student (dark blue coveralls), and a certified veterinary technician.
General Case Evaluation
The specific diagnostic steps that will be taken with your animal will reflect the problem being evaluated. After an initial physical examination, we will develop a plan and discuss the expected steps with you. At all times veterinary students will be involved with handling and sample collection under the direct supervision of a veterinarian. Some problems are straightforward and diagnosis can be made quickly. In general, however, you can expect that evaluation process to be more thorough and to take longer than would be practical for your referring veterinarian. You are always welcome to stay throughout the evaluation process. However, if we anticipate a long process, you may choose to head home for chores or to spend a little time at one of the many local attractions. Once we have established a working diagnosis, we will discuss treatment options with you. Most problems have several treatment options and we will explain each with a prognosis for successful resolution of the problem. You can then make an informed decision as to a treatment plan for your animal(s). A financial estimate will also be provided. If your animal requires hospitalization, a 50% deposit is required with the full balance due at the time of discharge. Visitation is best arranged in advance, so let us know if you would like to set up a time to come by.
Discharge
We want to be sure that you leave with all of the information that you need to continue
care of your animal with your veterinarian. We will provide a discharge letter for
you at the time of discharge that describes our findings, diagnostic procedures,
treatments, prognosis, and aftercare recommendations. We encourage you to call us
at any time after discharge if you have questions about your visit or about your
animal’s progress.
Our qualified and professional staff promises to provide the best care, treatment
and support for your animals.