What to Expect

We at Rainy River Veterinary Hospital, Inc. in International Falls, MN have assembled an excellent team of veterinary professionals to bring you the best possible healthcare for your pet.  We have a state-of-the-art veterinary facility which is clean, comfortable, and efficient. Call 218-285-7044 to schedule an appointment and we will find a time that is convenient for you.

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I have a new pet! Now what do I do?

1. Gather all medical records you obtained with your pet, whether that be from a previous owner, breeder, or veterinary clinic. It is a good idea to keep a pet medical journal so you and your vet can track any changes throughout your pet's life.

2. Take a look at our Vaccines/Wellness Exams tab and see what vaccines may be available for your pet. This may include heartworm and flea and tick prevention. If you are unsure about which vaccines are available for your pet, give us a call and one our helpful teammates can walk you through what is best for your pet.

3. Ready to book an appointment? Give us a call and we can get you scheduled. Have any concerns or questions for the vet? Let our receptionist know and we can schedule you appropriately. 

4. Now it's time for your appointment! Please keep your dog or cat on a leash or in a carrier and arrive 5-10 minutes early. Let the receptionist know your here and we will get to you as soon as we can. During your appointment, please let our staff handle your pet to ensure the best safety for everyone. This is the time to ask any questions or concerns!

5. What to expect after your first appointment. Payment is required at the end of your visit, and you may check out with our wonderful staff at the front desk. This is a good time to schedule any future booster appointments, rechecks or surgeries. 

6. Now, you are welcome to leave or visit our unique in-house store filled with all kinds of food, collars and treats!

*It is recommended that your pet has yearly exams and up to date vaccines so we can encourage their happiest and healthiest life.*



Surgery

It may sound scary at first, but our trained staff will take great care of your pet during their stay. After scheduling your pet for surgery, it’s time for the preparations. Make sure your pet does NOT receive any food after 8:00 PM the night before or water after 6:00 AM the morning of. Drop-off time is 7:30 AM and at that time you will fill out a surgery form. After, you will be able to pick up your pet the next day or later that day typically after 4:00 PM. Your pick-up day and time may differ depending on the surgery. It’s encouraged to call ahead of time to see if your pet is awake and ready to be picked up.


Emergency

  • Call (218-285-7044) or see Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/RainyRiverVeterinaryHosp) for our after-hour emergency availability.
  • For emergencies that are during hours, if you can, please call ahead so that our staff can prepare for your arrival.


Emergency Priority

    • True emergency
      • respiratory distress
      • collapse
      • unable to walk or get up
      • straining to urinate in a male cat
      • active seizure
      • severe trauma (Ex. hit by car/animal attack)
      • profuse bleeding
      • snake bite
      • persistent non-productive retching
    • Urgent
      • persistent/severe vomiting
      • appetite loss for more than 24 hours
      • known foreign body
      • aggressive coughing without distress
      • trouble during active labor/illness post-birth
      • multiple seizures within 24 hour period, but not actively seizing
      • diarrhea paired with vomiting or loss of appetite
      • toxin ingestion
    • Semi-Urgent
      • vomiting (2 or fewer episodes)
      • acute diarrhea without vomiting
      • straining to defecate
      • witnessed ingestion of foreign body with no signs of illness
      • blood in urine/straining to urinate in a dog or female cat
      • small wounds or lacerations
      • non-productive cough but breathing fine otherwise
      • broken toenails
      • squinting/ eye discharge/significantly swollen eye
      • allergic reactions (swelling in the face, hives)
      • limping
      • mild trauma/injury
    • Recommended to be Seen by Primary Care Vet
      • itching/scratching
      • chronic weight loss
      • chronic illness/disease with no recent change in condition
      • hair loss
      • red eyes/skin/ears
      • a single seizure with full recovery


*This list does not contain all possible situations. If you are unsure of the severity of your pet’s condition, please contact us or another emergency veterinary establishment

@Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota

End-of-Life (Euthanasia)

We’re so sorry that you’ve had to make this tough decision. It's surely not an easy one but may be the kindest thing you can do for your pet. Like a typical appointment, our staff will get your pet’s weight and place you in a room. At this time, we’ll have you take care of financials so that you have nothing to worry about afterwards and may leave whenever you are ready. Next, a technician will take your pet back to our treatment room to place an intravenous (IV) catheter. We will bring your pet back to the room with you and a technician or veterinarian will walk through the euthanasia process. You may choose to be present or not present during the euthanasia. Afterwards you may spend time with your pet and leave whenever you are ready.


How You Can Help

  • Keep a personal copy of your pet's vaccine/medical records
    • This is always a good idea, not only for keeping track of vaccines but for traveling. If your pet is in need of veterinary medical attention it is very helpful for the new vet to have previous records.
  • Socialize your pet
    • Just like with people, socializing your pet is crucial to their health and wellbeing. Exposing them to new environments and people helps reduce anxiety and discomfort when visiting the vet hospital.
  • Stay on time with vaccines and preventatives
    • Not only does staying on time save you money, but it also provides the best protection for your dog’s health.
  • Awareness of Your Pet’s Health
    • It's always a good idea to keep track of your pets' behaviors and physical health. If we notice and catch an illness quickly, it greatly increases the chances of a successful treatment.
  • Love and Enjoy your pet
    • Hundreds of studies have shown the benefits of pets and our health. Take time to spend with your pet showing them all the love and affection that they deserve. We love spending every day with these beloved family members.

Rainy River Veterinary Hospital, Inc.

Address

900 3rd Ave
International Falls, MN 56649

Phone

218-285-7044

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday  

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Tuesday  

7:30 am - 7:00 pm

Wednesday  

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Thursday  

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Friday  

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Saturday  

Closed

Sunday  

Closed

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