Taking your pet to the vets is an expensive time consuming trip and is pretty stressful for both pet and owner. Firstly, finding time in your busy schedule, then getting your pet in the car (double points if you need to lure your cat into the carrier as well), rushing through relentless traffic, before taking a seat in a busy waiting room, among a collection of nervous, anxious or over excited dogs and cats. Sound familiar? All of this before you even reach the consultation room. What if you could skip straight to the consultation? That’s exactly how online vet care works.
Let’s look at the most common reasons for visiting the vets:
These conditions make up 55% of vet visits in the UK and most of the conditions can be solved with an online appointment. From owners that used an online service 62% said the issue was resolved while 26% said their pets health had improved.
Other common reasons to visit the vet that can be treated by an online consultation:
If you have any concerns about your pet an online consultation works as an excellent first point of contact. Speak with a vet, talk through your concerns, have a virtual examination where you can send through pictures and videos of your concerns to the vet before your consultation and if the issue can't be solved online and your pet needs a physical examination the vet will send all the notes to the Veterinary Practice so they know what’s already been discussed.
Due to the remote nature of our work, online consultation do have their limitations and occasionally you may be advised to book a direct physical exam with a vet. Some issues that need a physical examination include:
1. Time Saving: With an online consultation, pet owners have access to veterinary care whenever they need it, without disrupting their busy schedules.
2. Stress-Free Consultations: Many pets experience anxiety or stress when visiting the vet. Online consultations allow for appointments in familiar surroundings, reducing stress levels for both pets and their owners. On top of this, the nature of online consults mean the vet is not under a time constraint to see the next patient, dedicating more time to your concerns.
3. Cost Savings: Traditional vet visits can be costly, especially for pets with chronic conditions requiring long-term medication. Online care offers affordable consultations with the cost of a written prescriptions included in the appointment, helping pet owners save money without compromising on quality care.
5. Accessibility for Pets with Behavioural Issues: Ever had a visit where the vet can barely lay hands on your sassy cat, or furious Chihuahua? Or potentially you’ve rescued a poor pup from overseas, who still finds the world a little daunting. Pets with behavioural concerns, such as aggression or fear of unfamiliar environments, may struggle with a traditional vet visit. Telemedicine provides a safe and comfortable alternative for these pets to receive the care they need.
