In-home veterinary visits are officially on the rise
The popularity of in-home veterinary care is growing fast for many reasons and can be a great solution for certain pets and families.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), a growing number of pet parents are choosing veterinarians who make house calls over traditional veterinary practices.
Why should I choose an in-home visit?
- Provides convenience and personalized care
- Gives your veterinarian a more complete picture of your pet’s behavior and health, along with potential environmental and lifestyle challenges
- Allows a stress-free environment of their own home to avoid the anxiety associated with carriers, car rides and vet offices
Is it right for me?
Pet parents are choosing in-home vet care for many different reasons, and there’s not just one “type” of pet parent that prefers this service.
For some younger pet parents, ease, convenience, and personalization are top reasons for the in-home visit. Older adults with mobility issues who are concerned for their own and their pet’s safety during challenging and stressful visits to the vet’s office tend to choose in-home visits to alleviate the stress of their concerns.
Is it right for my pet?
In-home veterinary care can be an ideal solution for pets who are:
- Shy, scared or skittish
- Elderly
- Large, with mobility problems
- Aggressive or unsocialized
Having your vet come to you can also be beneficial for:
- Multi-pet households
- People with hectic or unpredictable schedules
- Couples with a new baby or young children at home
- People without reliable transportation
- Peaceful euthanasia for your pet
How does it benefit my pet’s health?
At-home visits allow your veterinarian to see the whole picture. Visiting your pet in their own environment and not under stress gives your vet a more complete picture of your pet’s health, which can mean the difference between catching a problem early and a potential misdiagnosis.
Here’s an example of how this service helped a cat with a previous misdiagnosis:
During an at-home vet visit for a kitty with a serious ongoing hairball problem, the visiting vet noticed immediately that the house was filled with cigarette smoke and the poor kitty had developed asthma as a result. Her dry, hacking cough sounded like gagging or retching, which falsely led to a hairball diagnosis by three separate veterinarians who saw the cat at their clinics.
Identifying the true cause of your pet’s health issues is what veterinarians always strive to uncover in order to provide the best possible care. At the same time, your vet can offer practical tips to help the entire household.
When should I try an at-home visit?
For routine check-ups and less-urgent medical attention, at-home visits can be a great experience for your pet and your family.
The most frequently requested in-home visits are for at-home euthanasia services. Dr. Hatt provides a touching ceremony for the family and their beloved pet in the comfort and privacy of their home. (See below)
At-home euthanasia: quality of life
Euthanasia isn’t just a medical procedure. It is the act of peacefully ending a life in order to relieve pain and suffering. Many pet owners choose to make it more ceremonial, like a funeral. It’s important to know that everything is done at the pace you and your pet dictate.
As the only medical profession licensed to perform this most important gift, we take the pride in the technical, medical, and soft skills associated with ending the life of a beloved family member.
Our at-home euthanasia service includes:
- A discussion with you and your family about your concerns, thoughts, or questions
- Mild sedation to help ease any discomfort
- Transportation of deceased
- Cremation arrangements
- Complimentary pawprint keepsake
As veterinarians, we have dedicated our lives to helping pets and the people that love them, so please reach out whenever you are ready to learn more, not just when “it’s time.”
Pawsh Place provides the best vet care in the comfort of your home.
For more information, contact us at 707-203-0574 or schedule your appointment online