Last Updated: May 28, 2026
Welcome to East Lincoln Animal Hospital. By using our website and veterinary services, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following terms and conditions. Please review these terms carefully. If you do not agree with these terms, you should not use our website or services.
Acceptance of Terms
By accessing our website or scheduling an appointment at East Lincoln Animal Hospital, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
Veterinary Services
Professional Relationship
A veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is established when:
- The veterinarian has assumed responsibility for medical judgments regarding your pet's health
- You have agreed to follow the veterinarian's instructions
- The veterinarian has sufficient knowledge of your pet through examination or visits to the premises where the animal is kept
- The veterinarian is readily available for follow-up evaluation or has arranged for emergency coverage
Appointments and Scheduling
- Appointments are scheduled based on availability
- We require 24 hours' notice for appointment cancellations
- Late arrivals (more than 15 minutes) may need to be rescheduled
- Emergency cases may cause delays in scheduled appointments
- We reserve the right to refuse service or dismiss clients who do not comply with our policies or who are abusive to staff
Treatment and Medical Decisions
- You authorize us to provide necessary veterinary care for your pet
- Treatment plans and estimates will be discussed before proceeding with non-emergency procedures
- In emergency situations, we may provide life-saving care before obtaining explicit consent
- You are responsible for all medical decisions regarding your pet's treatment
- We will provide professional recommendations, but the final decision rests with you as the pet owner
Payment and Fees
Payment Policy
- Payment is due at the time services are rendered unless prior arrangements have been made
- We accept cash, credit cards, debit cards, and approved payment plans
- Estimates are provided to the best of our ability but may change based on your pet's condition and required treatments
- A deposit may be required for surgical procedures or hospitalization
Past Due Accounts
Accounts not paid within 30 days may be subject to:
- Late fees and interest charges
- Suspension of services until the account is brought current
- Referral to a collection agency
- Responsibility for collection costs and legal fees
Medical Records
- We maintain complete medical records for all patients
- You have the right to access and request copies of your pet's medical records
- A reasonable fee may be charged for copying records
- Records will be released to other veterinary facilities upon your written authorization
- Medical records are retained in accordance with North Carolina state law
Prescriptions and Medications
- Prescriptions are provided based on a valid VCPR
- We comply with all federal and state regulations regarding controlled substances
- Refills require a current examination (typically within the last 12 months)
- You are responsible for administering medications as directed and for any adverse reactions that occur due to improper administration
- Unused medications should be disposed of properly; we can provide guidance on safe disposal
Client Responsibilities
As a client of East Lincoln Animal Hospital, you agree to:
- Provide accurate and complete information about your pet's health history
- Inform us of any changes in your contact information
- Follow treatment instructions and medication protocols
- Attend scheduled follow-up appointments
- Keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier while in our facility
- Supervise your pet at all times in our waiting area
- Treat our staff with courtesy and respect
- Pay for services rendered in a timely manner
Liability and Disclaimer
Standard of Care
We strive to provide the highest quality veterinary care. However, veterinary medicine is not an exact science, and we cannot guarantee specific results or outcomes. We will use our professional judgment and skills consistent with accepted veterinary standards.
Limitation of Liability
- We are not liable for complications or outcomes beyond our control
- We are not responsible for injuries your pet may cause to people or other animals while in our care, unless due to our negligence
- We are not liable for any damages resulting from your failure to follow treatment recommendations
- Our liability is limited to the direct costs of the veterinary services provided
Assumption of Risk
You acknowledge that veterinary procedures carry inherent risks, including but not limited to:
- Adverse reactions to medications or anesthesia
- Unexpected complications during surgery
- Progression of disease despite treatment
- Unpredictable animal behavior
Website Use
Content Accuracy
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information on our website, we make no warranties or representations regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of any content. The information on our website is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice.
No Online Medical Advice
Our website does not provide medical advice or establish a VCPR. For medical concerns, please contact our office directly or visit us in person.
Intellectual Property
All content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, and images, is the property of East Lincoln Animal Hospital and is protected by copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or use any content without our written permission.
Emergency Care
We provide emergency services during business hours. For after-hours emergencies, we recommend contacting:
- Your nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
In life-threatening situations, seek immediate veterinary care.
Termination of Services
We reserve the right to terminate the veterinarian-client-patient relationship if:
- You fail to comply with treatment recommendations
- Your account remains past due despite reasonable efforts to collect payment
- You or your representatives behave in an abusive, threatening, or disrespectful manner toward our staff
- There is a breakdown in trust or communication
If we terminate services, we will provide reasonable notice and assist with transferring medical records to another veterinary provider.
Changes to Terms
We may update these Terms & Conditions from time to time. Changes will be posted on our website with a revised "Last Updated" date. Your continued use of our services after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.
Governing Law
These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina. Any disputes arising from these terms or our services will be resolved in the courts of Lincoln County, North Carolina.
Severability
If any provision of these Terms & Conditions is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.
Contact Information
If you have questions about these Terms & Conditions, please contact us:
East Lincoln Animal Hospital
7555 Highway 73 E
Denver, NC 28037
Email: david@eastlincoln-animalhospital.com
Acknowledgment
By using our website and services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions.