Mermaid SANDS FAQs

There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team. Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Appointment

FAQs

What services does Mermaid SANDS provide?
We focus on the most essential early-life care for pets: affordable spay and neuter procedures, dental cleanings, core vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and flea and tick prevention.
Do you offer spay and neuter for dogs and cats?
Yes! Mermaid SANDS provides spay and neuter surgery for both dogs and cats, helping to prevent unwanted litters and keep pets healthier throughout their lives.
What is included in a dental cleaning for pets?
Our dental cleanings include a full anesthetic procedure with scaling and polishing of your pet’s teeth. If needed, we will recommend further treatment at a full-service veterinary hospital. Cleanings are intended to prolong healthy teeth and do not include extractions.
What pets are eligible for care at Mermaid SANDS?
We serve healthy, young dogs and cats who need essential preventive services and basic procedures. Eligible patients meet all of the following:

● Under 3 years old

● No signs of illness (e.g., coughing/sneezing, vomiting/diarrhea, skin infection, heart murmur)

This focus keeps pricing affordable and lets us help more pets in the community.

If your pet doesn’t meet these criteria, please contact Mermaid Vet Hospital for full-service care.
● Not brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs)

Do you treat older pets or pets with medical conditions?
No. Mermaid SANDS is focused on healthy, young pets who need basic preventive care and procedures. Older pets or those with medical issues are best cared for at a full-service veterinary hospital, where they can receive comprehensive diagnostics and treatment.
How much does it cost to spay or neuter a pet at Mermaid SANDS?

Pricing depends on your pet’s species, weight, and specific needs. Please see our Pricing page for more details.

Do you offer payment plans or financial assistance?
Because our fees are already reduced, we do not offer payment plans. However, donations to Mermaid SANDS help keep our services affordable for all families.
Do I need to prepay for my pet’s surgery?
Yes. A nonrefundable prepayment is required to reserve your pet’s surgical appointment. Because Mermaid SANDS operates as a nonprofit, missed appointments take away time and resources that could have been used to help another pet. Prepayment ensures spaces are available for families who are ready and committed to giving their pets the care they need.
How do I request an appointment?

We are still in the process of obtaining all the required permitting to open and are not currently accepting appointments. We will update this page as soon as we begin seeing patients.

Will I receive a drop-off and pickup time for my pet?
Yes. Every appointment comes with a specific drop-off and pickup time, so your pet’s day is planned and stress is minimized.
How do I prepare my pet for surgery?

For dogs and cats scheduled at Mermaid SANDS:
● No food after midnight the night before surgery

● Water is fine until you leave for the clinic

● Withhold supplements on the day of surgery

● Call ahead to tell us if your pet is on any medications, or if they show signs of illness (coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.)

● Arrive at your assigned drop-off time

● Bring pets safely contained — cats in carriers, dogs on leashes

● Leave personal items at home (blankets, toys, etc.)

Full preparation and aftercare details are available on our Pre-Surgical Instructions page.

What should I expect after my pet’s procedure?

You’ll go home with easy-to-follow written aftercare instructions. Our goal is to make recovery simple, safe, and stress-free for both you and your pet.

Is Mermaid SANDS part of Mermaid Vet Hospital?

No. Although Mermaid SANDS was founded by the team at Mermaid Vet Hospital, it is a separate entity that operates independently. While they share a vision of keeping pets healthy, they differ in their approach.

● Mermaid Vet Hospital is focused on whole-life care and exceptional service
● Mermaid SANDS is focused on expanding access to affordable start-of-life care

Is Mermaid SANDS a nonprofit veterinary clinic?
Yes. We operate as a nonprofit, which allows us to keep costs low and reinvest in caring for more pets in our community.
Where is Mermaid SANDS located?
We are located at 6596 Old Dixie Hwy, Vero Beach, Florida and proudly serve families throughout Indian River County and the surrounding area.
What makes Mermaid SANDS different from other veterinary clinics?
Unlike traditional full-service clinics, we focus only on the most essential services. This streamlined model keeps costs affordable while maintaining the same high standards of veterinary medicine you’d expect for your pet.
Where do my donation dollars go?

Mermaid SANDS is committed to being operationally sound and financially responsible so that we can provide sustainable, long-term access to veterinary care for pets in our community.

Our goal is for the clinic itself to be as self-sufficient as possible through service revenue. Donations allow us to expand access and impact beyond what fees alone can support.

Your donation helps us:

● Expand access to care
Subsidize services for pets whose families would otherwise be unable to afford necessary veterinary procedures.

● Increase capacity and availability
Support additional surgery days, extended clinic hours, and higher patient volume as demand grows.

● Invest in equipment and infrastructure
Purchase and maintain medical equipment that improves safety, efficiency, and quality of care.

● Support community programs and outreach
Fund targeted initiatives designed to reach underserved populations and reduce barriers to care.

By strengthening the foundation of the clinic, donations will help ensure that Mermaid SANDS can continue serving more pets, more families, and more of our community—now and into the future.