Getting Your Pet Ready For A House Call From Your Yorkville, IL Veterinarian

Have you ever wished that your doctor made house calls? This was once standard practice, but that custom has gone by the wayside nowadays. While some people do of course get home care, most modern medical appointments involve going to the clinic. However, while house calls have mostly become a thing of the past for us humans, they are now becoming popular for pets. Many veterinarians offer mobile services. Here at Safford Veterinary Services, we’re happy to offer this service. Read on as a local Yorkville, IL veterinarian shares some helpful advice on preparing your furry companion for a house call.

Key Benefits Of A Veterinary House Call

House calls offer many perks and benefits. Convenience is of course the big one. Many people have hectic schedules these days. If you’re juggling a lot of balls, having your vet come to you can make your life a bit easier. House calls are also great options for stay-at-home parents or caretakers, as well as anyone who works from home. People with mobility issues or transportation concerns may also find them particularly beneficial. You won’t have to drive, deal with traffic, or wait in a waiting room.

Pets also give this option the paws-up. The majority of our furry clientele are certainly homebodies. Cats can become quite anxious about being removed from their comfortable surroundings. As you probably know, car rides are not very popular with most felines. Actually, for many kitties, the journey to a clinic causes more tension than the actual appointment! 

While Fido may tend to have a more adventurous spirit than Fluffy, dogs can also experience motion sickness. Owners with larger breeds may also face difficulties when transporting Fido, especially if he is unwell.

Having your vet visit your furry friend also minimizes stress for pets. While it’s easy to make jokes about how Fido and Fluffy dread going to the animal clinic, the reality is that clinics can be unsettling for them. The unfamiliar smells, faces, and sounds can be overwhelming. Additionally, being around—or even just picking up scents from—other potentially sick or frightened animals can add to your furry pal’s unease. Even though veterinarians make efforts to calm and reassure their patients, it’s safe to assume that most animals would rather be in the comfort of their own home.

What Should I Do To Prepare My Pet For A House Call?

Your Yorkville, IL veterinarians will give you any specific requests in advance. These may differ a bit from place to place. 

That said, here are a few general suggestions for things you should prepare in advance:

Prepare The Necessary Paperwork Ahead of Time

Be prepared to provide any documents or records the vet may need. This is particularly important if you’re just starting out with a new clinic. Your new vet may be able to obtain records from the previous veterinarians, but it’s a good idea to have everything ready just in case. (Tip: get a designated folder for this, and keep everything in one place.)

Offer Any Relevant Information

Think about any information your veterinarian may need. If you live in a gated community, you may need to provide an entry code, or explain what gate procedures are. If you have assigned parking, be clear about where they can and cannot park.

Wi-Fi access might also be helpful. We understand that many people are reluctant to share their passwords. However, your veterinarian may need a signal in order to process billing statements, records, and other documents. Sometimes we can use a cell phone or hotspot, but this can pose a problem if the signal is bad. Consider creating a guest account. You can always delete it later.

Put Pets In Secure Area

Even if your pet is usually very friendly to strangers, he or she might want to retreat into a quiet spot once they realize they are the center of attention. Cats, in purrticular, tend to hightail it to their favorite hiding place the moment they realize something’s up. You don’t want to spend your appointment slot trying to get Fluffy out from under the bed! Put Fido or Fluffy in a small space, such as a bathroom or utility room, so that they cannot slip away. Block access to popular hiding spots, such as areas behind or beneath couches. We also recommend closing bedroom and bathroom doors.

Play with Your Pet Before The veterinarian Arrives

Pets are always calmer after a fun play or workout session. Take Fido for a walk before his appointment, or tire Fluffy out with a fun game of Catch The Red Dot.

Make The Most Of Veterinary House Calls

You may find that house calls tend to be more casual than typical office visits. This can be helpful to both the veterinarians and the patients. Your vet may spot something that would have otherwise gone unnoticed, such as a poisonous plant or a recalled toy. This also just often naturally leads to important and insightful conversations.

Have An Area Ready

It would be very helpful for you to have an area ready, where your vet can inspect your furry friend. A table or counter is ideal for a cat or a small dog. For large dogs, the floor will do. Pick a spot that can take spills (which may include excrement). You may want to put something down on the surface beforehand. A plastic tablecloth is also a good option. You can often find inexpensive ones at dollar stores. 

Good lighting is also important. If the spot doesn’t have sufficient lighting, bring in a few extra lamps from another room.  

Appointment Scheduling

House calls can fit into even the busiest schedules. However, it’s good to schedule the appointment with some breathing room around it. That way, if the appointment takes longer than expected, you won’t be rushing to get to your next engagement.

Discuss Food And Treats

It’s always a good idea to discuss your pet’s diet with your vet. After all, nutrition plays a huge role in your pet’s overall health and well-being. A house call is the perfect time to do this. you’ll be able to show the Yorkville, IL vet exactly what your pet is eating. That’s especially helpful if you’re using a brand with many different products and lines.

Try To Limit Distractions

Try to minimize distractions, phone calls and televisions on in the background, as much as possible. If you have young kids, give them something to occupy themselves with during the appointment.

Considering A Veterinary House call For End-Of-Life Care

House calls are becoming increasingly common for end-of-life care. We know, that isn’t the easiest topic to discuss or even think of. It’s never easy to say goodbye to a beloved pet. However, that sad day will come for all pet owners, sooner or later. While nothing can truly ease the pain of giving that cherished companion a final farewell, numerous individuals find that in-home euthanasia offers a sense of grace and solace. Your beloved companion will gently drift into slumber, without any undue distress or anxiety. This may be the most compassionate choice for your furry companion, and is a dignified and kind way to send them over the Rainbow Bridge after a lifetime of devoted companionship.

If this is the reason for your house call, talk to your vet beforehand about specifics. Having a specific date in advance may assist with preparation. It also gives you the option of granting your furry pal a beautiful final day filled with love and happiness.

Conclusion: House calls are becoming more and more popular. It’s a much easier option for both people and pets. Making a few simple preparations in advance can help ensure all goes smoothly.

Our Advice on Getting Your Pet Ready For A House Call in 2024

How do veterinarians handle emergencies or unexpected complications during a house call?

Veterinarians handle emergencies or unexpected complications during house calls by being well-prepared with essential medical supplies and equipment. They carry portable diagnostic tools, medications, and emergency kits to address a range of potential issues. Additionally, vets are trained to quickly assess and stabilize pets in critical conditions. They may also coordinate with nearby clinics or emergency services for further assistance if needed. Effective communication with pet owners about potential risks and having a clear action plan ensures that emergencies are managed efficiently during house calls.

Can all types of veterinary procedures and treatments be performed during a house call, or are there limitations?

Not all veterinary procedures and treatments can be performed during a house call. While many routine exams, vaccinations, and minor treatments are easily handled at home, complex surgeries and advanced diagnostic tests often require specialized equipment found only in clinics. Additionally, certain emergencies may necessitate immediate access to comprehensive veterinary facilities. House calls are best suited for general wellness checks, managing chronic conditions, and providing end-of-life care. For more intricate medical needs, visiting a fully equipped veterinary clinic is essential to ensure the highest standard of care.

Are there any specific types of pets or health conditions that may not be suitable for house call treatment?

Certain types of pets and health conditions may not be suitable for house call treatment. Exotic pets, such as reptiles and birds, often require specialized care and equipment typically available only in veterinary clinics. Additionally, pets with severe health conditions, like advanced heart disease or serious injuries, may need immediate access to comprehensive medical facilities and specialized diagnostics. While house calls offer convenience and reduce stress for many pets, those requiring intensive care or advanced medical procedures are best treated in a fully equipped veterinary clinic to ensure optimal outcomes.

How do house calls work for multi-pet households, and can multiple pets be treated during the same appointment?

House calls for multi-pet households are efficient and convenient, allowing multiple pets to be treated during the same appointment. Veterinarians plan and prioritize based on the pets’ health needs, ensuring each receives appropriate care. Owners should prepare by securing pets in a designated area and providing necessary medical records. This setup reduces stress for the animals and saves time for owners, eliminating multiple trips to the clinic. Effective communication with the vet before the visit helps streamline the process, ensuring a smooth and comprehensive evaluation for all pets involved.

Are there any specific preparations pet owners should make to their home environment prior to a house call?

Pet owners should prepare their home environment before a house call by securing pets in a small, easily accessible area to prevent hiding. Ensure all necessary medical records and documents are ready for review. Create a clean, well-lit space for the examination, such as a table for small pets or a cleared floor area for larger dogs. Minimize distractions by turning off televisions and keeping young children occupied. Providing Wi-Fi access for the vet can also facilitate smooth communication and record-keeping. These preparations help ensure an efficient and stress-free visit.

Contact us, your local Yorkville, IL pet hospital, if you’re interested in scheduling a house call. We are dedicated to offering top-notch care!