Can't Get In Today? We Can Still See Your Pet.
When something's wrong, or you just need care fast, waiting days for an appointment isn't always an option. That's why we offer a drop-off exam option for both new and existing clients.
Heads up: filling out a form on its own doesn't book a visit. Please start with Get Your Pet Seen and select drop-off when asked so we know you're coming and can route you correctly.
Hearthstone has a set number of in-room exam slots each day, and Dr. Pelton wants to use every one well. Drop-offs stretch those hours further: instead of turning pets away, your pet gets a focused exam worked into the day, without anyone feeling rushed. It's not a compromise. It's a smarter way to make sure more pets get the care they need.
What is a drop-off appointment?
You bring your dog or cat in during a set window (usually early in the day) and leave them with us for the morning or part of the day. Dr. Pelton works them into the schedule between appointments or during surgery downtime.
Once we've examined your pet, we call or text you with findings, recommendations, and costs. No treatment is done without your permission unless it's a true emergency.
It's the kind of care we'd want for our own pets: thorough, honest, and done as soon as we safely can.
Why do we offer drop-offs?
Dr. Pelton is one doctor. There are only so many hours in a day, and we'd rather see your pet under different circumstances than not at all.
Drop-offs let us:
- See more sick and urgent pets the same day, without overbooking
- Give your pet a proper exam instead of a rushed visit
- Work with you, not just around a packed schedule
On a lighter day, your pet may be seen within an hour or two. On a busy day it might be a full morning. We'll always give you a heads-up so you're never left wondering.
"I've been doing this for over 25 years. I don't like turning pets away. Drop-offs help me make sure no pet falls through the cracks. If you're cool with us doing what we do best, we'll treat your pet like family."
Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM
The process
What happens next?
If you're good with the drop-off option, here's what to do.
Start with "Get Your Pet Seen"
This is how we know your pet is coming in. Answer a few quick questions and select drop-off when asked — that's how we route you correctly and reserve a spot. The standalone drop-off form on its own does NOT book the visit.
Start: Get Your Pet SeenWe'll confirm your drop-off time
We'll text or call back to confirm when to come in.
Bring your pet
Bring your pet during our drop-off window (usually 7-9 AM). Fasted if needed, we'll let you know.
We take care of the rest
We keep you updated along the way.
"But my pet has anxiety." We hear you.
We get it. Everyone feels like their dog or cat could never handle being away from them. It's one of the most common things we hear from loving pet parents.
Here's the truth: about 99% of pets do just fine.
Once they're settled in a cozy kennel with soft bedding and a little time to decompress, most pets relax pretty quickly. Many even enjoy the quiet time to nap and unwind. Our team keeps a close eye on them and makes sure they're comfortable, calm, and feeling safe.
If your pet truly needs a little extra care, we've got that covered too. We're good at helping animals feel at home here.
Most pets relax quickly in our calm environment.
Need a different option? We've got you covered.
Your pet's care matters more than our schedule. If drop-off doesn't work for you, here are some trusted local options.
Not sure how urgent it is? Read Is this a pet emergency? for what to do right now versus what can wait.
General practice
- JERSEY VILLAGE: 713-466-8542
- LOGANBAUGH: 281-856-7023
- PANDA WELLNESS: 281-345-4101
- PETSMART/BANFIELD: 281-855-9985
- TANNER LAKES: 713-937-4484
- WESTBURY ANIMAL CLINIC: 713-723-0317
Urgent & emergency care
Urgent care:
- URGENT VET (opens 3pm): 346-588-7800
- TRUE COMPANION: 832-930-7717
Emergency:
- GULFCOAST VET SPECIALIST: 713-693-1111
- BLUE PEARL SPECIALIST Katy: 281-675-6000
- VERGI: 713-932-9589
We'll still be here if you need us in the future. No hard feelings.
Common questions
Drop-off FAQ
What time should I drop my pet off?
Drop-off is typically between 7-9 AM. We'll confirm the exact window when you submit the form.
How long will my pet be there?
It depends on the day. On a lighter schedule, we can often examine your pet within an hour or two. On a busier day, it may be most of the morning. We'll give you a heads-up when you drop off, and we'll text or call as soon as we're done. You won't be left guessing.
Will I know what's happening while my pet is with you?
Yes. We'll call or text you with findings and recommendations before doing anything. No treatment without your approval.
What if my pet is really anxious?
We hear this a lot. About 99% of pets settle in quickly with soft bedding and a calm environment. We're good at helping nervous animals feel safe.
Ready to schedule a drop-off?
Use Get Your Pet Seen and pick drop-off when prompted. That's how the visit actually lands on our schedule — we'll text or call to confirm, and keep you posted every step of the way.
The old standalone drop-off form by itself does not book the visit — please start here so we know you're coming.