What Makes a Great Mobile Veterinarian?

What could be more convenient than being able to skip your pet's discomfort in a veterinarian's office? Dogs, including yours, can be hostile, friendly or in heat. There may be nonstop barking. There can be long waits. 

With healthy dogs that only go to the veterinarian for an annual checkup, this may not be as big of a deal. However, for older dogs who may not be able to commute as easily in automobiles or for canines who are seriously ill, traveling to a veterinarian will become a bigger issue. Consider looking into a mobile veterinarian who can bring the veterinary clinic to you. Your pet will be cared for and examined in the comfort of their own home, typically allowing for a less stressful experience.

What makes a great mobile veterinarian? Read on to find out. Then, ask around at the dog park to see which other doggy parents are using a mobile veterinarian service, and ask for recommendations.

The appointments are not rushed

One of the benefits of booking with a mobile vet is that there are no other pets waiting in line at the clinic. Sure, the veterinarian has other house calls to make, but for now, the appointment is focused on your dog alone. This may lead to a longer appointment time, allowing your pet the time needed to relax and form a connection with the vet. A stress-free visit sets the tone for all future appointments because your companion will remember the visit as positive and without tension.

The vet offers options for paying the bill

While the odds are slim to none that a pet professional would not accept a variety of payments, it's not impossible. Always ask beforehand about what forms of credit cards, insurance (if applicable) and payment plan the mobile veterinarian accepts. Just as not all independent doctors' offices or hospitals take health credit cards, not all mobile veterinarians are as financially flexible. 

While one may be receptive to online payments, another may not be. Along with an easy method of payment, a great mobile vet has reasonable prices, too. Bear in mind that there may be travel expenses; however, the convenience is worth the added cost.

The vet can offer a variety of services

When choosing a mobile veterinarian, ask what types of services they cover. If a mobile veterinarian can only come to a pet owner's residence for regular preventative care, it may be easier to continue going to a larger facility that handles everything at the same time. The idea of a mobile veterinarian is to relieve the dog and owner of the commute back and forth to health facilities. Select a mobile vet who has the equipment and capability to do extra services for your furry buddy like x-rays, ultrasounds, pharmacy services, and blood testing, among others.

The vet has a flexible schedule

Veterinarians who go into the mobile vet profession do so because they want to relieve the stress that animals often go through when they have to travel to the clinic. The goal is to reduce the fear and trepidation that animals often associate with a trip to the vet. Additionally, to offer the pet parent services that fit their schedule is another goal. When considering a mobile pet caregiver, ask what their schedule is like. Do they work nights or weekends? Do they offer an emergency service if required?

Make the right decision

As long as you are patient enough to approach veterinarian shopping the same way you would for a doctor for yourself, finding a mobile veterinarian should be simple enough. There may be a few trial runs before hiring the perfect person (or team). But as long as your dog is taken care of, it's a win-win-win for all three parties.