Answers, before you even have to ask.
Here you will find answers to the most common questions about visiting the practice, the emergency service, veterinary dentistry and costs, often even before you have asked them. If something is missing, feel free to write to us or call.
Am I welcome as a new client — and how do I register?
Of course we are glad to welcome new patients. To make your first visit smooth, please register online in advance via our new-client form. Your master data, pre-existing conditions and insurance details will be on file before the appointment. Then book your first appointment online via termin.vet/cremlingen or by phone on 05306 / 5722841. Please bring the vaccination record and, if available — any previous findings.
Do you also treat small pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs?
Yes. With Dr Susanne Buschtöns we have a veterinarian on the team whose explicit focus is small-pet medicine. For the calmest possible examination we are happy to choose quiet times of day, just let us know.
Do you offer veterinary dentistry?
Yes, it is one of our specialist areas. With Dr Jan Minde and Dr Susanne Buschtöns we have two veterinary dentists on the team, including dental X-ray, dental surgery and prophylaxis. Read more under Services → Dentistry.
Do you offer home visits?
In certain situations, for example with very old or seriously ill animals. We offer home visits. Please call us directly to arrange an appointment so we can find the right time slot.
How does the emergency service work?
On weekdays between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. we treat acute cases ourselves or refer you to our partner veterinary practices in the region. Outside these hours or at the weekend our answering machine informs you about the nearest veterinary clinic on duty. More details on the emergency service page.
What are the approximate costs — and do you accept pet health insurance?
Billing follows the German veterinary fee schedule (GOT). Treatment costs are discussed transparently in advance. Direct billing is established with three pet health insurers: Agila, Barmenia and balunos. A signed assignment of claims is always required. With all other insurers, you settle our invoice yourself first and submit it for reimbursement. Special note on Barmenia: with Raban Esser we have a dedicated agency partner who knows our practice and supports you personally.
You work with Barmenia — who is the contact person?
With Barmenia we have a special situation that other insurers do not offer: Raban Esser is our dedicated Barmenia agency partner. He knows our practice and guides you personally, from choosing the right tariff over the application to handling a claim. If you are already a Barmenia customer and wish to bill directly through us, we always require a signed assignment of claims.
Which fee schedule do you bill according to?
Like all veterinary practices in Germany, we bill according to the nationally applicable veterinary fee schedule (GOT). Every individual service is shown clearly on the invoice. The amount depends on the type and effort of the treatment. You can view the current GOT at the German Veterinary Chamber.
Do I receive a cost estimate in advance?
Yes. For planned treatments and operations we are happy to provide a cost estimate in advance on request, so that you can assess the expected costs. Simply let us know when arranging your appointment.
Why can treatment in the emergency service be more expensive?
For veterinary services outside regular consultation hours, the GOT provides for an emergency-service surcharge. This is regulated uniformly nationwide and covers being on call at off-peak and emergency times. More about the process on the emergency service page.
Is there parking directly at the practice?
Yes, free parking spaces are available in front of the practice, including an accessible space. The practice has step-free access.
Which documents should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring the vaccination record or small-pet passport, any previous findings from other veterinarians, and a list of all medication your pet is currently receiving. If you have pet health insurance, please also bring your insurance details.
Does my pet need to fast before an operation?
Yes, as a rule your pet should not eat anything 8–12 hours before a planned anaesthetic. Water may still be offered. You will receive detailed guidance, including on medication — during the pre-operative consultation.
Do I receive findings digitally — e.g. via an app?
Yes. Via our MeineTiere app you can conveniently manage findings, vaccination dates and reminders on your smartphone. On request we also send results by e-mail.
Do you offer neutering and spaying — and when is the right time?
Yes, both conventional and laparoscopic procedures are part of our standard range. We discuss the right timing individually — breed, sex, age and circumstances all play a role.
Can I bring my cat and my dog together?
We recommend transporting cats and dogs separately where possible. We have a dedicated waiting area for cats. So that your feline friend stays calm and does not feel stressed by dogs.
How long must my pet fast before anaesthesia?
Dogs and cats: 6–12 hours without food, water remains allowed. Small pets and rabbits: do not fast. Please put their usual food into the transport box. Full details in our guide Anaesthesia, surgery & aftercare.
What must I tell the practice before a procedure under anaesthesia?
All known pre-existing conditions (heart, circulation, liver, kidneys, epilepsy), medications taken regularly, known intolerances and previous anaesthesia complications. For Collies and related breeds we recommend an MDR1 genetic test in advance, as certain anaesthetics can be critical here. Details in our guide Anaesthesia, surgery & aftercare.
What happens during the anaesthesia and who monitors my pet?
Before each anaesthesia a veterinarian examines your pet. It receives a gentle sedative and usually an intravenous catheter for infusions and medication. A veterinarian is present throughout the entire anaesthesia; for longer procedures we use inhalation anaesthesia with oxygen. During the recovery phase your pet remains continuously monitored. More in our guide Anaesthesia, surgery & aftercare.
How do I care for my pet at home in the first 24 hours after surgery?
Rest, warmth and a familiar setting are most important: a quiet, dimmed room, soft bedding, not on a bed or sofa. Water is allowed any time, food only after individual agreement. The wound must stay clean and dry, no licking or scratching allowed. Small pets must eat again on the day of surgery, otherwise an acute emergency may develop. The full 24-hour plan is in our guide Anaesthesia, surgery & aftercare.
When are the sutures removed after an operation?
Skin sutures are usually removed 9–12 days after surgery. We arrange the exact appointment at discharge. Please also keep planned follow-up examinations and medication schedules. Details in our surgery aftercare guide.
Which warning signs after surgery should I take seriously — when should I call immediately?
Please call 05306 / 572 28 41 immediately if you observe: drowsiness or loss of balance still after 24 hours, severe or persistent pain, very swollen or pus-leaking wound, sutures loosening before day 10, loss of appetite the day after (small pets: on the day of surgery), diarrhoea, vomiting, seizures, fever, no urination, and anything that worries you. When in doubt, call once more rather than waiting. The complete list is in our guide Anaesthesia, surgery & aftercare.
What does preventive care cover and how often is it needed?
The annual preventive check covers general examination, vaccination advice, parasite control, dental and weight checks. In the second half of life we recommend two checks per year including blood tests. More on the Preventive care & vaccination page.
Was your question not among them?
We are happy to answer personally, by phone, by e-mail, or simply book an appointment directly.