Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Summit Dog & Cat Hospital been in operation? Does Dr. Dorney still own the hospital?
Summit Dog & Cat Hospital has proudly served the community at this location since 1923. Our current building opened in 1997.
Dr. Dorney continues to own the hospital. We have been family-owned and operated since 1980 and remain proudly non-corporate.
Are specialists available at Summit Dog & Cat Hospital?
Yes. We offer radiology, ultrasonography, orthopedic surgery, and surgical consultations performed by specialists on an appointment-only basis.
I only need a rabies shot. Do I need to pay for an office visit?
Yes. New Jersey State law requires that any pet receiving a rabies vaccine must be examined by a veterinarian to ensure they are healthy enough to receive the vaccine.
This is a doctor’s exam (not a technician visit), and an exam fee will apply.
All pets must be examined by our veterinarian yearly. If your pet has been examined within the year and does not require a rabies vaccine, a technician may administer other eligible vaccines. Please call us with any questions prior to scheduling.
Do you perform surgery?
Yes. In addition to routine procedures such as spays, neuters, mass removals, and dentistry, we also schedule and perform orthopedic and major soft tissue surgeries.
Pre-Surgical Instructions:
No food or water after midnight the night before surgery.
If your pet eats or drinks after midnight, surgery may be canceled and your full deposit forfeited.
Do you offer grooming?
Yes. We offer full grooming services by appointment only.
- Monday–Friday drop-off: 8:00–8:30 AM
- We will call when your pet is ready for pickup
- Sedation grooming for cats is available
Do you still participate in the town’s free rabies program?
No. We stopped participating in the town’s free rabies program in 2021.
What products do you carry?
We offer:
- Royal Canin prescription diets for dogs and cats
- Flea, tick, and parasite prevention products
How long before my pet’s remains are returned?
Your pet’s remains typically return within 10–14 days. We cannot guarantee timing, as we use an outside company. Pet Meadow services the hospital every Monday.
I’m boarding my pet elsewhere. What vaccines are required?
Each boarding facility has its own vaccine requirements. Please contact the boarding facility directly to confirm which vaccines and/or fecal testing are required.
We recommend gathering this information prior to making a reservation to allow time for any needed vaccinations.
Why does my pet need a physical exam to refill medication?
Even lifelong medications require at least one physical exam per year to monitor your pet’s condition.
Some medications also require periodic bloodwork to ensure:
- Proper dosage
- Medication effectiveness
- No harmful side effects
Symptoms may look similar but have different causes requiring different treatments. Using medications without an exam can worsen certain conditions, especially eye or skin issues.
At what age can my pet be spayed or neutered?
Spaying or neutering is typically performed around 6–8 months of age.
- An exam is required prior to surgery
- Current vaccinations are required
- Pre-anesthetic blood screening is recommended
What is pre-anesthetic blood screening?
This blood test evaluates:
- Organ function
- Blood counts
- Clotting ability
It helps ensure your pet’s safety during anesthesia and surgery.
Why does my pet need repeat bloodwork for certain medications?
Monitoring ensures medications are:
- Working properly
- Not causing side effects
Following dosing instructions and recommended lab schedules ensures the best therapeutic outcome.
What is required for sedate-to-groom if I am not a current client?
- Your pet must be examined by our veterinarian (yearly requirement for all services).
- Core vaccines must be current and emailed 48 hours prior to your appointment.
- Pets 3 years or older require lab work dated within 2 months of the appointment (no exceptions).
Sedate-to-groom is available Thursdays and Fridays by appointment only.
Drop-off: 8:00–8:30 AM
No food or water after midnight.
You will sign a medical release form. Groomers set their own fees.
Call (908) 273-2200 with questions before scheduling.
Can I walk in for a technician appointment or pedicure?
No walk-ins are accepted. You must schedule a technician appointment.
Same-day appointments may be available, but you must call to schedule to ensure timely service.
I need a medication refill.
Refills may be requested:
- Online through PetDesk
- By calling (908) 273-2200
Please allow 24–48 hours for processing.
Do you charge a technician fee?
Yes. We maintain a dedicated technician for tech appointments.
Pedicures are the only service that does not include a tech fee.
Tech visits are lower cost than doctor visits and typically involve shorter wait times.
Can my prices be grandfathered in?
Unfortunately, no. Due to increasing operational costs nationwide, we cannot grandfather pricing.
Prices are subject to change without prior notice.
Can I use your services if I use another veterinarian for medical care?
As of November 1, 2024, all clients and non-clients must have been examined by our veterinarian within the calendar year to use hospital services (grooming, boarding, technician visits, etc.).
What is the non-cash fee and how can I avoid it?
We apply a 3.99% non-cash fee to credit/debit card transactions due to processing costs.
To avoid this fee, you may pay by:
- Cash
- Check (with proper ID for current clients)
What are boarding drop-off and pick-up hours?
- Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
I am fostering for a rescue group. Can I obtain medical records?
No. Medical records are provided only to the rescue organization. The rescue owns the pet and must request records directly.
What vaccines are required for boarding or grooming with you?
The following must be current:
- Rabies
- DHPP
- Bordetella
- Exam by our veterinarian within the year
Why does my pet need heartworm prevention year-round?
Heartworm disease is transmitted by infected mosquitoes and has been reported in all 50 states.
Because mosquito activity timing varies, prevention should be given year-round. The heartworm lifecycle can take up to 6 months before symptoms appear.
Many heartworm preventatives (such as Sentinel and Heartgard) also protect against intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.