How much more does an ER visit cost than a regular visit?
Emergency veterinary costs can variate a lot due to circumstances and the seriousness of the visit. They are usually higher than your regular veterinarian visits for several reasons. First, emergency veterinary clinics are manned 24/7 with efficient staff who is ready to help your furry friend at a moment’s notice. At All Pets we have an experienced emergency veterinarian, technicians and reception staff on premises every hour. We never close either, whether it’s Christmas or a calamity like “Snowmageddon” we’re always there to save your pet. We are open and staffed 24/7 all year round.
In addition to the staff, the higher costs for an emergency veterinary clinic is also because we are required to have specialized equipment and medications such as CBC and blood chemistry machines, oxygen cages, digital X-rays, ultrasound machines, CT scanners, fluid pumps and many uncommon medications.
Another factor that adds to the cost of emergency veterinary care is the stage of disease. Many pets will show signs of abnormality when a problem has progressed to a critical point. At that point, half measures are inadequate. The dog that vomited once yesterday morning is not the same dog as the one that vomited frank blood and then collapsed today.
Do I need to have my pet’s medical records?
Most of the time this is the first time we will be seeing your dog it can be very helpful and in even some cases life saving to have your pet’s medical records. Recent records can be invaluable. They give vital information about current diseases and treatments. By knowing what disease a pet has and what medications it is receiving, allows us to formulate a better plan. In some cases the records shed no further light on a case, but they are always useful.
Following your visit to All Pets we will send a summary of your pet’s visit including test results, treatments and procedures to your regular veterinarian. Even though the nature of emergency cases usually prevents us from having prior knowledge of your pet’s diseases and treatments, we will always make sure that your pet receive great care moving on. We always try to work with your regular veterinarian as much as possible. Our job is to compliment them not replace them. Many chronic treatments and diseases will need close monitoring or follow-up testing. This is best done at your regular veterinarian’s office.
What are typical wait times?
The goal in an all hospital settings is to see and treat the patient in the shortest amount of time. At All Pets we try to prioritize our cases whenever possible. Unfortunately, this means some cases may have to wait because critical cases must be taken first. Depending on the number and complexity of these cases that may result in a long wait. We try to keep our clients informed on the status of their case, however, time does not always permit this. Our standard is to see our cases as soon as they come in. If we feel the wait will be too long, we will reach out to a nearby clinic who may be able to treat the case.
What is the best way to transport my pet?
This depends on the condition of the pet, the nature of the emergency and the size of the pet. Wherever possible, small pets should be transported in a pet carrier. This will help limit their movement in the car, prevent further injury and allows easier removal from the car. Some cats and small dogs can crawl under seats and be very difficult to remove. Larger dogs can be transported on blankets on back seats or rear decks. Never put a pet in a car trunk.
Pets that are in urgent distress should be handled very carefully at all times. The sweetest, most obedient dog can become highly aggressive when in severe pain or distress. Try to avoid putting your hands or body near the mouth. Scared and hurts dogs can bite or scratch their owners and cause severe injuries requiring a visit to the Emergency Room for the owner. Taking your friend to an emergency vet clinic can be stressful so always remember to take caution to protect yourself and your pet.
