How often should my dog or cat see a veterinarian?

Most healthy adult dogs and cats should have a wellness exam every 12 months. Puppies, kittens, pets with chronic medical conditions, and senior pets over age seven benefit from exams every six months so changes can be caught early.

Is Premier Veterinary Hospital accepting new clients?

Yes. We welcome new clients from Tyler and all of East Texas. Visit our New Clients page to complete your registration form before your first visit, or call (903) 617-6072 to schedule.

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

Bring any previous medical and vaccination records, a list of current medications and supplements, a fresh stool sample if possible, and your pet on a leash or in a secure carrier. Having this information helps our veterinarians build a complete health picture from day one.

Do you accept walk-in appointments?

Scheduled appointments are always preferred and take priority, but we offer walk-in hours on Thursdays from 9am to 11am for clients who cannot book ahead.

What are your hours?

We are open Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 5:30pm and Saturday from 8:30am to 5:00pm. We are closed on Sunday.

Which vaccines does my dog need?

Core vaccines for dogs include rabies and distemper/parvovirus. Depending on lifestyle, we may also recommend Bordetella, leptospirosis, and canine influenza, especially for dogs that board, groom, or visit dog parks. Our veterinarians tailor every vaccine plan during your pet’s wellness visit.

Which vaccines does my cat need?

Cats typically need rabies and FVRCP vaccines. Additional vaccines may be recommended for cats that go outdoors or live with other cats. We will build a protocol that fits your cat’s age and lifestyle.

Does my pet really need year-round heartworm and flea prevention?

Yes. East Texas has warm weather and mosquitoes most of the year, so heartworm disease is a year-round risk. Consistent parasite prevention protects against heartworm disease, fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms, and it costs far less than treatment.

Should I microchip my pet?

Microchipping is one of the most reliable ways to reunite with a lost pet. The chip is placed under the skin in seconds during a routine visit. Learn more on our microchip information page.

Why does my pet need anesthesia for a dental cleaning?

A complete dental cleaning includes scaling below the gum line, dental X-rays, and a thorough oral exam, none of which can be done safely or thoroughly on an awake pet. Anesthesia keeps your pet comfortable and protects the airway while our team monitors vital signs continuously.

How do you keep my pet safe during surgery?

Every surgical patient receives a pre-surgical exam, pre-anesthetic bloodwork, an IV catheter and fluids, and continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, CO2, ECG, and temperature by a trained technician. Patients stay warm on a dedicated body warming unit throughout the procedure.

Do you offer minimally invasive surgery?

Yes. We offer endoscopy, laparoscopy, and laparoscopic surgery, including laparoscopic spays, foreign body removal, biopsies, and bladder stone removal, which typically mean smaller incisions and faster recovery.

What diagnostic testing do you offer in-house?

Our diagnostic department provides digital radiography, ultrasound, complete blood counts, chemistry panels, electrolytes, urinalysis, cytology, intestinal parasite testing, and in-house coagulation panels for fast, accurate answers.

What is laser therapy and how can it help my pet?

Laser therapy uses light energy to reduce pain and inflammation and speed healing. It is drug-free, non-invasive, and helpful for arthritis, wounds, post-surgical recovery, and many chronic conditions.

Do you offer pet boarding and grooming?

Yes. Our boarding facility offers private dog runs, multi-level cat condos, daily photo updates, and medication administration. Our grooming team provides baths, trims, and breed-specific styling by appointment.

What should I do if my pet has an emergency?

Call us right away at (903) 617-6072. During hospital hours, emergencies are given priority over routine appointments. Visit our pet emergencies page for warning signs that need immediate care. After hours, contact the nearest 24-hour emergency hospital.

What payment options do you accept?

We accept cash, debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. We do not accept checks. Financing is available through CareCredit, Scratchpay, and Cherry payment plans. See our fees and payments page for details.

Do you accept pet insurance?

Pet insurance works on a reimbursement basis, so you pay at the time of service and submit your claim to your provider. We are happy to provide records for your claim. Learn more on our pet insurance page or about our Veterinary Health Savings Account.

Can I get international health certificates for travel?

Yes. We prepare international health certificates. Many countries have strict timelines for vaccines and testing, so please call well in advance of your travel date to schedule a consultation.