Vet Office Etiquette

Arrive Early for Your Appointment

The vet clinic can be a very busy place and to ensure you get the most out of your appointment, you should arrive at least 5 minutes early. It will give our staff time to check your pets into their appointments. Check-in will include verifying owner information and weighing your pet. Giving the staff a little extra time to prepare is a great way to be sure the doctors have the full appointment time to look examine your pets and discuss all of your concerns.

Keep Voices Low

At the vet clinic, we try to do the very best for all of our clients. Unfortunately, there are some sad times in the clinic. In the waiting room, you should try and keep your voices low to be respectful of those clients who may be having a sad day. It can also be important to speak quietly to ensure you do not startle any pets waiting for their appointments.

Easily Stressed Pets

If your pets are easily stressed when visiting us, please call ahead so we can prepare. Nobody wants to go to the doctor and pets are no different. A trip to the clinic can be a stressful time for some pets. If you feel like your pet will be stressed during their visit to the clinic, then you should give us a call a few days prior to your appointment so we can discuss the best way to make the visit easier for both you and your pet. We can do our best to accommodate your situation. Medication may be prescribed by your pet’s veterinarian to help calm your pet or an exam room can be prepared ahead of time for a nervous cat who does not do well around barking dogs. We want to make your pet’s visit to the clinic as stress-free as possible for both of you.

Take Dogs for a Walk Prior to Their Appointment

During very busy days appointments can get delayed due to an unforeseen emergency and this means your dog may be at the clinic for an extended period of time. To keep your animal comfortable, it is a good idea to go for a short walk with your pet before your appointment. This way your dog can relax and not have to worry about the next time they get to go outside.

Aggressive Animals

If an animal is aggressive, it is a good idea to leave them in the car (weather permitting) while you are checking in. Staff can set up an exam room and have it ready for your pet and avoid them having to sit in the waiting room. It prevents your pet from encountering other animals. Some animals just don’t get along. Some aren’t comfortable with people they don’t know while others don’t like other animals. Some may not be thrilled about their visit to the clinic. Whatever the case may be, if you think your pet may become aggressive during the course of their appointment it is important to let the staff know beforehand. Staff can also assist in getting your pet into the exam room if necessary.

Keep Dogs on a Leash and Cats in a Carrier

The waiting room can be a frustrating environment for dogs and cats. Some don’t want to be around other animals, while some don’t like sitting still. However, it is very important to keep your dog on a leash and your cats in their carriers in the waiting room. Anything can happen, and it is important to be able to control your pets if you have to. It creates a safe environment for your pets and other clients and their pets. If you feel you may need some help keeping your dog under control in a stressful situation then ask a staff member to assist you.

Written by: Natasha Dehoop, Client Care Representative