FAQs

Where is Copake Veterinary Hospital located, and what areas do you serve?

We are located in Copake Falls, NY, and serve pets and their families throughout Columbia and Dutchess counties — including Hudson, Millerton, Rhinebeck, and surrounding communities in the Tri-State area.

Is Copake Veterinary Hospital accepting new patients?

Yes — we welcome new clients and their pets. New client appointments require a $50 booking fee to secure your time slot. This fee is non-refundable if the appointment is canceled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours’ notice. Visit our new clients page for everything you need to know before your first visit.

What species does Copake Veterinary Hospital treat?

We are a small animal hospital. We see dogs and cats. We do not currently see exotic animals, birds, reptiles, or large animals.

Is Copake Veterinary Hospital a corporate practice?

No. We are independently owned and operated by Dr. Tyler Hotaling and his wife, who purchased the practice in March 2024. We have no corporate affiliation. Our clinical decisions are made based entirely on what is best for your pet and your family.

What is AAHA accreditation, and why does it matter?

AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) accreditation means our practice has been independently evaluated against more than 900 standards covering surgical protocols, anesthetic safety, pain management, medical record quality, laboratory standards, pharmacy management, and team training. Fewer than 10% of veterinary practices in the United States and Canada hold this distinction. It’s independent third-party verification that the care delivered here meets the highest standards in veterinary medicine.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Call Copake Veterinary Hospital at (518) 329-6161 during business hours. For new clients, please have your pet’s prior records ready if available. All clients are asked to call ahead rather than walking in — this allows us to prepare for your pet’s arrival and minimize wait times. You can also use our appointments page.

What are your hours?

Please call us at (518) 329-6161 or visit our contact page for current business hours and holiday schedules. Hours may vary seasonally.

Does Copake Veterinary Hospital see emergencies?

We accommodate urgent cases during business hours. Please call us immediately at (518) 329-6161 before arriving so we can prepare for your pet. For after-hours emergencies, we can direct you to the appropriate emergency facility. Learn more on our emergency and urgent care page.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, CareCredit, and pet insurance. Payment is expected at the time services are rendered. Visit our payment options page for full details.

Does Copake Veterinary Hospital accept pet insurance?

Yes. We work with all major pet insurance carriers. Payment is collected at the time of service, and we provide itemized invoices and complete medical records to support your reimbursement claim with your provider.

How do I get my pet’s medical records?

Call Copake Veterinary Hospital at (518) 329-6161 or ask our front desk team during your visit. Records can be provided to you directly or forwarded to a specialist or referring veterinarian as needed.

Do I need to bring anything to my pet’s appointment?

For new clients: prior veterinary records, vaccination certificates, and a small fecal sample (collected within 24 hours) if possible. For all patients: any medications or supplements your pet takes, and notes about any behavioral or physical changes you’ve observed since the last visit — even small changes can be clinically relevant.

How often does my pet need to be seen?

Most adult dogs and cats benefit from annual wellness exams. Senior pets — generally 7 years and older — often benefit from twice-yearly visits as health changes can progress quickly with age. Puppies and kittens need multiple visits in their first year for vaccine series completion and developmental monitoring.

What vaccinations does my pet need?

Vaccination recommendations vary by species, age, health status, and lifestyle. Core vaccines are recommended for all pets. Non-core vaccines — like Lyme, Leptospirosis, and Bordetella — are recommended based on individual risk factors. Our Hudson Valley location means tick exposure is significant for most outdoor dogs. Visit our vaccinations page for full details, or discuss your pet’s specific protocol at their next appointment.

Does Copake Veterinary Hospital perform surgery?

Yes. We offer soft tissue surgery, dental surgery, spay and neuter, emergency surgery, and orthopedic procedures including internal fracture fixation. Dr. Hotaling is also completing TPLO (knee) surgery training, with plans to offer it by Fall 2026. Visit our surgery page for our complete capabilities.

Does Copake Veterinary Hospital offer dental care?

Yes. We provide professional dental cleanings under full anesthesia with dental radiography, extractions, and periodontal treatment. Dental disease is one of the most common and underdiagnosed conditions in adult pets. Learn more on our dental care page.

What parasite prevention do you recommend for pets in Copake Falls, NY?

Columbia County and the Hudson Valley have significant flea, tick, and heartworm pressure. We recommend year-round or appropriately timed prevention for most patients. Lyme disease is endemic in our area, and Leptospirosis exposure risk is meaningful for dogs with any outdoor exposure. Visit our parasite prevention page or discuss the right protocol for your pet at their next visit.

Does Copake Veterinary Hospital offer laser therapy?

Yes. We offer therapeutic laser for pain management, wound healing, post-surgical recovery, and management of chronic conditions like arthritis. It is non-invasive and well-tolerated by most patients. Visit our laser therapy page for more information.

How do I complete new client paperwork?

Visit our online forms page to complete new client and patient intake forms before your appointment. This streamlines your check-in and ensures we have accurate information before your pet is seen.

How can I leave a review for Copake Veterinary Hospital?

We appreciate client feedback — it helps other pet owners find trusted veterinary care and helps us continue to improve. Visit our review us page to share your experience.