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Frequently Asked Questions

How can Pets in Balance help my pet?

Pets in Balance Veterinary Care provides physical rehabilitation, acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, and advice on nutrition and supplementation to help improve your pet’s overall health and well-being. Dr. Lisa Starr, veterinarian and owner of Pets in Balance, will discuss your pet’s history, review medical records, and evaluate your pet at the initial visit to identify ways in which your pet’s comfort, mobility, performance, overall health and/or quality of life can benefit from her services.

What types of cases does Pets in Balance see?

Pets in Balance treats pets of all sizes and shapes. We commonly see pets after an injury and prior to or after a surgery, while others come in for preventative care and wellness. Some of our patients have had surgery for cranial cruciate ligament tears, hip or elbow dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, while others have had a muscle strain, suffer from osteoarthritis, degenerative neurologic disease, or have an unidentified cause of lameness and pain. We provide pain management and advice on supplementation for cancer patients, advice on assistive devices such as carts for paralyzed patients, harnesses and boots for pets that are weak and tend to drag or knuckle, orthotic bracing for pets with unstable joints, and even casting for prosthetic limbs for partial amputees.

How can I tell if my pet is in pain?

Your pet may be in pain if they are not interacting with you like they normally would, have a decreased appetite, trouble rising, are limping, have sensitivity to the touch or increased aggression, are excessively grooming, or are showing signs of increased panting or restlessness. Many owners are often unaware that their dog or cat is in pain until they have had their pet evaluated and start to see the results of therapy. We love hearing that treatment has made our patients seem younger, that they are going up the stairs again, or playing with toys they haven’t touched in a long time!

How do I schedule and prepare for my first appointment?

Please email (drlisa@petsinbalancevet.com) or call Dr. Starr (312-724-7844) if you have questions that have not been addressed on the website. If you are ready to schedule your first appointment, please submit an appointment request through our online scheduling link and fill out the new patient information form. We would like to have records and/or x-rays from your veterinarian at least 24 hours in advance of your first appointment so that we can properly prepare for your visit. Veterinarians can fill out an online form, print and email, or fax us a referral in the referring veterinary portion of the website.

Dr. Starr is a Fear Free Certified Professional.  If you have a fearful dog or cat, please don’t hesitate to consult Dr. Starr for some tips on how to make your pet’s appointments less stressful for them.

What is your cancellation policy?

We request 24 hours notice for all cancellations or rescheduling of any appointments. After your first missed appointment, we will require payment in advance for future visits.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept all major forms of payment including credit cards, cash, and checks. Payment is due when services are rendered. Many insurance companies will reimburse owners for the services that we provide however plans do vary. Please contact your pet’s insurance company directly to inquire about their coverage. Unfortunately, at this time, we are unable to provide payment plans.