Getting the Most Out of Your Visit to Your Veterinarian
By: Stephen Sawicki
A trip to your veterinarian can be harrowing for you and your pet. Here are some tips that will make the experience go smoother and help your pet to receive the best care possible.
Visiting your veterinarian can be stressful for all involved. Your pet's health is at the heart of the matter and, of course, a little anxiety is understandable. Know, however, that it's important for you as the owner, to pay strict attention and take an active role, whether you're at the animal clinic for an emergency or a routine matter. After all, a lot of information gets passed back and forth in a short period. Medical terminology can be confusing. And even the best of us can forget details, misunderstand directions, or simply be overwhelmed in the moment.
Take heart, though. Getting the most out of your veterinary visit is eminently possible.
What it calls for is some old-fashioned planning, a willingness to voice concerns and, like a good golf swing, follow-through.
Stress BustersMake sure your small mammal is exposed to a variety of new items and experiences early in life. This can help alleviate stress when it is time to meet the vet. Making repeated visits to the veterinary office may not be the best idea for your pet but handling and exposure to new and unfamiliar people can help. Get your pet used to handling by doing some would-be examinations at home. Hold his head still and inspecting his eyes, legs, ears and mouth.
Have ControlTo avoid mishaps, keep your critter in an escape-proof carrier at the clinic. Don't walk in with your pet in your arms.
The Waiting RoomRestrict your pet's socializing in the waiting area. Some animals there may have communicable diseases. Others may be aggressive. None need added excitement or agitation.
Consider leaving small children with a caretaker. You may face difficult decisions about treatment or euthanasia and restless children only add to the confusion. If you do bring them, make sure they're on their best behavior. Also, parents should understand that a veterinary clinic isn't a petting zoo.
Make a ListIf your pet becomes ill, take a moment to write, as specifically as possible, the chronology and frequency of his symptoms. "Was sneezing preceded by discharge from the eyes and nose?" Harmon Rogers, a small-animal practitioner in Washington state, asks. "Did diarrhea occur before and/or after the new pet was added?" Putting your observations on paper will save time, and help your veterinarian better decide what problems to tackle first.
What to Bring Previous medical records will help if you're visiting a new veterinarian. If you have copies, bring them along or have them forwarded ahead of time.
Collect a stool sample. The results of a fecal examination may be very important in finding the cause of illness.
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxin – rat poison, for instance, or prescription drugs – bring in its identifying container, if possible, or a safely kept sample, so doctors can treat the problem accordingly and quickly.
If your pet's already on medication, know the drug's name, as well as, how many milligrams your pet receives and how often. If need be, simply bring along the container.
Be Involved
Often, your pet will perk up around strangers and no longer seem lethargic, for example, or show lameness. It's your job to describe your pet's symptoms as seen at home. Try to be as specific but as concise as possible.
Don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian to clarify a point or explain terminology. Asking questions is key to your visit.
Money Matters
Be candid about your finances. If cost is a concern, your doctor may work with you or tailor treatment accordingly. Most veterinarians will provide a cost estimate. If they fail to provide one, ask. This will help in weighing your decisions about treatment and to head off what could become a burdensome bill. "Clients need to think about what this is going to do to them financially, what their pet is going through, and how well and how much longer he'll live," Rider says. "Those are hard things to balance."
Know the Plan
When you leave the clinic with your recovering critter, make sure you understand what's expected of you. Know, for example, when medication is to be given, or if you're expected to return for follow-up tests or X-rays. If necessary, have your veterinarian write it out.
Follow-up Visits
Obey instructions precisely. Antibiotics should be administered to completion of a prescription. A pet whose activity needs to be restricted should be restricted. Make sure to return to your veterinarian if recommended, or if the problem persists.
Finally, if your pet's doing well after treatment, let your veterinarian and the staff know. As often as not, they also develop attachments to pets and their clients, and they wonder how things turned out. "The best phone calls I get," intern Rider says, "are the ones that say everything is going great."
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