How CBX Pet Care Works — 6 Simple Steps

Step 1 — Request a Free Estimate

Everything starts with a conversation. Contact us by calling or texting 619-914-2990, or email info@cbxpetcare.com. Tell us about your pet’s situation — the diagnosis, recommended treatment, and any records or estimates you have received from your San Diego veterinarian.

Within 24 hours, our coordinators provide a detailed written estimate that includes the treatment cost, transport details, and a clear explanation of everything involved. This estimate is free, with absolutely no obligation. Many clients contact us after receiving a quote from a San Diego specialist and want to understand their options.

What to share with us for the most accurate estimate:

• Your pet’s breed, age, and weight
• The diagnosis or reason for treatment
• Any lab results, imaging reports, or biopsy reports from your San Diego vet
• The treatment your vet recommended
• Any quotes you have received from San Diego clinics (optional but helpful)

Step 2 — Choose Your Treatment Plan

Once you have your estimate, our coordinator walks you through the options. We explain which partner clinic specializes in your pet’s specific condition, what the treatment involves, the expected timeline, and the total cost.

If you want a second opinion on the diagnosis or treatment plan, our partner veterinarians can review your pet’s records and provide their assessment. This initial consultation is $80-$150 and can often be done based on records alone, without requiring a physical visit.

We never pressure you to book. Take the time you need to make an informed decision. Our coordinators are available to answer questions throughout the process. Learn more about our partner clinics and their specializations.

Step 3 — Book With a $50 Deposit

When you are ready to proceed, a non-refundable $50 deposit secures your appointment date. This deposit is applied toward your total treatment cost — it is the first $50 of your bill, not an additional fee.

Once booked, you receive a confirmation with your appointment date, meeting point details, drop-off time, and a preparation checklist specific to your pet’s procedure.

Step 4 — Onboarding

Before your appointment, our coordinator gathers all the information needed to ensure a smooth experience:

• Medical records: We collect and organize your pet’s relevant records to share with the treating veterinarian
• Medication list: Current medications, dosages, and schedules
• Special needs: Allergies, behavioral notes, handling preferences, or dietary restrictions
• Emergency contact: Your phone number and an alternate contact
• Pre-procedure instructions: Fasting requirements, medication adjustments, and what to bring on appointment day

This onboarding process ensures the veterinary team has everything they need before your pet arrives at the clinic.

Step 5 — Documents (We Handle Everything)

Border crossing documentation is one of the biggest concerns for pet owners considering cross-border veterinary care. Here is the reality: CBX Pet Care handles all of it. You do not need to research regulations, fill out forms, or worry about compliance.

Here is what is required and who handles it:

Dogs entering Mexico	Current rabies vaccine	You provide proof of vaccination
Dogs returning to US	Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) + CDC Dog Import Form ($5)	CBX fills out the CDC form; clinic places microchip if needed
Cats (either direction)	No requirements	Nothing needed

For complete details, see our border crossing requirements guide.

Step 6 — Appointment Day

This is the day everything comes together. Here is exactly what happens:

1. 7:00-9:00 AM — Drop off your pet at the meeting point (National City or Chula Vista Walmart, or door-to-door by arrangement). Our coordinator greets you, takes your pet, and confirms the plan for the day.
2. Morning — Transport to clinic in a climate-controlled vehicle. Your pet is checked in with the veterinary team.
3. Mid-morning — Check-in call. You speak directly with the treating veterinarian. This is your opportunity to ask questions, discuss the treatment plan, and give approval to proceed.
4. Treatment is performed. Whether it is a dental cleaning, chemotherapy, MRI, or surgery, your pet receives the full standard of care.
5. Post-treatment monitoring. Your pet is observed until stable and alert.
6. Early afternoon — Checkout call. Results, aftercare instructions, medication details, and follow-up recommendations are provided. This is your second guaranteed phone call of the day.
7. 1:00-4:00 PM — Pick up your pet at the same meeting point. Your pet is returned with any medications, discharge paperwork, and imaging results (USB drive if applicable).

What You NEVER Have to Do

We designed CBX Pet Care to remove every burden from the pet owner except showing up at the meeting point. Here is what you never have to do:

• You never cross the border
• You never drive in Tijuana
• You never navigate a foreign veterinary clinic
• You never fill out customs or import forms
• You never deal with border agents about your pet
• You never research which clinic to use
• You never schedule directly with a foreign clinic
• You never worry about the language barrier
• You never coordinate medication or aftercare instructions in another language

Our coordinators handle every single detail. You drop off your pet, receive two phone calls, and pick up your pet the same day with a clear understanding of results and next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Process

How quickly can I get an appointment?

Most appointments can be scheduled within 3-7 business days of booking. Urgent cases may be accommodated sooner. Chemotherapy patients with an established schedule are given priority booking for follow-up sessions.

What if I need to reschedule?

Contact our coordinator as early as possible. We will work with the clinic to find an alternative date. The $50 deposit is non-refundable, but it carries over to the rescheduled appointment date.

Can I send my pet’s records digitally?

Yes. Email records, lab results, and imaging to info@cbxpetcare.com. We can receive PDFs, photos of documents, or records directly from your San Diego veterinarian’s practice management system.

What if my pet needs follow-up care after the appointment?

Your checkout call includes specific aftercare instructions and guidance on when follow-up care is needed. Routine follow-up (suture removal, recheck exams) can typically be done by your local San Diego veterinarian. If follow-up treatment at the Tijuana clinic is needed, we schedule the next appointment during the checkout call.

Do you work on weekends?

Appointment availability varies by clinic and procedure type. Most appointments are scheduled Monday through Saturday. Contact us to discuss scheduling that works for you.

Last updated: March 2026