Veterinary Service & Informed Consent Agreement

Understanding the partnership between the veterinarian and pet owner in making medical choices. Part of Southside Mobile Veterinary Services’ protocol is to provide pet owners with information to assist in making informed choices about treatment options. This involves your understanding and agreement regarding the recommended care, the benefits and risks associated with that care, alternatives, and the potential effect on your pet’s health if you choose not to accept the treatment plan.

Important information for clients seeking Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. Acupuncture involves the stimulation of specific points on the body using single-use, sterile, disposable needles. Treatments may include dry needling, electrical stimulation, moxibustion, or aqua-acupuncture (injecting saline or vitamins). Acupuncture is generally very safe and well-tolerated. While rare, possible side effects include quietness, tiredness, tenderness at injection sites, or needle-break. In very rare instances, needles can be shaken out by the pet; please notify us if you find a needle in your home.

A transparent look at potential side effects and the nature of veterinary medical results. As with all veterinary medical and holistic healthcare approaches, results are not guaranteed. Possible side effects after treatments may include temporary tiredness, lack of appetite, bruising at injection sites, or hyperactivity. While acupuncture and general medicine are safe, every medical intervention carries a small risk of unexpected side effects related to a pet's age or underlying health status. If a pet is not responding as expected, we may offer alternative treatments or refer you to a full-service specialist.

Your role as a handler and our commitment to a safe medical environment. To provide the best care, we rely on the accuracy of the medical and behavioral history you provide. Regarding physical safety: It is our policy to avoid "chasing" pets. If you choose to restrain your own pet during a visit, you assume all liability for any damages or injuries inflicted by the pet upon yourself or the pet. By choosing to hold your pet, you waive all rights for claiming damages against Southside Mobile Veterinary Services.

Options for conventional medicine, specialists, and brick-and-mortar hospital referrals. As a mobile practice, we specialize in personalized, in-home care. However, we acknowledge that certain medical conditions—such as those requiring 24/7 hospitalization, advanced diagnostic imaging (MRI/CT), or complex orthopedic surgeries—are best served in a full-service facility. When We Refer: If your pet's condition is not responding as expected to mobile care, or if a critical emergency arises, we will provide an immediate referral to one of our trusted local partners, such as Dogwood, SAVES, or MedVet Atlanta. Your Choice in Care: We respect your right to choose between the holistic and conventional treatment options we provide, as well as the right to seek care from other practitioners, including specialists in cardiology, oncology, or neurology. We are committed to maintaining seamless communication with any referral facility to ensure continuity in your pet’s medical records. Policy last updated: May 2026