It is not always obvious when to use a mobile vet or when to head to the veterinary clinic. With home-visit veterinary care becoming increasingly popular, you may wonder whether a visit in your own home is always the best option for you and your pet.
This article discusses when to choose a mobile vet vs normal vet, and when visits within your own home can truly be of benefit.
There are pros and cons to both options, and choosing correctly can help reduce both stress and extra costs.
Cats that are difficult to get into carriers
Possibly one of the best things about a home visit is that owners don’t have to get out the dreaded cat carrier. There is no need to try and wrangle a small tiger into their cage, saving both you and them from the trauma.
A cat who has been stressed out from being confined in a carrier is more likely to act aggressively. On top of this, their high stress levels can even contribute to raised blood pressure and higher heart rates when in the vet clinic.
Dogs frightened of cars or waiting rooms
Many dogs experience anxiety while on the way to the vet clinic or when they arrive. This can be associated with worrying experiences from the past, particularly if they’ve ever been an inpatient or had surgery in the clinic.
Keeping your dog at home can help lower their natural cortisol levels and should ensure they feel much more confident and comfortable for their vet check.
Older or arthritic pets
There’s no denying that it can be especially hard to get an older pet to the vet, especially if they are large and have mobility trouble. Many owners seeking vet care have large dogs that struggle to walk far and it can be extremely difficult for them to physically get into the clinic for the check overs and medication that their pet needs.
Multi-pet households
If you have several animals, it usually makes sense to try and organise a vet home visit. This works especially well for routine checks, such as vaccinations. However, if just one pet is unwell it is not recommended to wait until another pet needs to see the vet too, before calling the vet over..
Be aware that vets will charge for more than one consultation if more than one pet is being seen. Do make the team aware of which pets require the vet’s attention when you book in.
Owners who do not drive
One of the most common reasons that home vet visits would be requested is when an owner struggles with transport. If they cannot drive or get a lift, having a vet come to the home can be a real lifesaver.
For those occasions when a home visit is not appropriate, it may be an option to get a lift from a friend or neighbour or to use a pet taxi service.
Owners with disabilities or reduced mobility
Again, if a vet can come to a person’s house, this is a lifeline for owners who have disabilities or who would find it hard to bring their pet into the clinic.
Accessible vet care is a vital part of ensuring that all pets get the care that they need, in a timely manner.
Medication and chronic-condition reviews
Pets on long-term medication usually need to be seen by the vet team every few months. These checks can take up a lot of time and some owners find it difficult to work them into their schedule.
For these frequent visits, it can be very handy to arrange a vet to come to the house as needed. As well as checking your pet over, they would be able to perform diagnostic tests including blood and urine tests if needed.
End-of-life appointments
Home visits are particularly valued at the end of a cat or dog’s life, when travelling to the veterinary practice can be especially difficult, or even emotional.
These visits ensure owners do not have to worry about moving an unwell patient, or transporting them when they feel sick.
Home-visit euthanasia is often greatly appreciated by owners, and allows their pet to pass away peacefully and calmly in the comfort and familiarity of their own surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a home visit always an option?
No, a home visit would not always be the best choice for your pet. For example, a pet who is critically unwell and needs surgery or stabilisation is usually best seen at their local clinic.
Are there any downsides to a home visit?
There will be an extra charge for a home visit, as the vet needs to charge for their travel time and expenses. Also, bear in mind that the vet will carry more limited equipment and will not be able to carry out the range of diagnostic tests available in a veterinary hospital.
How can I best prepare for a home visit?
Have your pet secured in a room that they cannot easily escape from, and try to ensure it is accessible for the vet and well lit. If you can, have another familiar pair of hands available, should they be needed for restraint. It is also sensible to have some treats nearby!
What if I don’t know which type of appointment to choose?
If you’re still unsure if your pet would be best seen at home or in the clinic, call the vet and ask them in person. They will be happy to guide you on the more appropriate option.