The 7 Top Things Vets Wish Their Clients Knew

Although pet owners wants the best for their furry friends, sometimes there can be a gap in communication between veterinarians and pet parents. This void can make visits less effective and stressful for all parties involved. Here are the top things vets wish their clients knew:

1. Preventative Care is Key

Preventative care is often much more affordable and less stressful than treating a disease once it’s already progressed. Keeping pets up-to-date on vaccinations, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, and dental cleanings are essential to ensuring your pet stays healthy for years to come. Being proactive about pet health can help prevent a variety of issues from developing in the first place.

2. We Can’t Diagnose Over the Phone

While it might seem convenient to text or call the vet about a health concern, getting a pet diagnosed based on a brief description over the phone is generally not a reasonable request. Symptoms that appear minor or insignificant could be signs of something much more serious, and without a physical examination, veterinarians cannot accurately assess a pet’s condition. It is always recommended to bring a pet in for a proper exam when there is a medical concern.

3. Pets Don’t Always Show Pain

Animals often hide pain because of survival instincts. Pets, especially cats and birds, are notorious for masking discomfort, making it more difficult to diagnose issues early. Regular preventative check-ups and keeping an eye out for subtle signs of pain, such as changes in behavior, eating habits, or mobility, are essential for maintaining their well-being.

4. Don’t Skip Follow-Up or Recheck Appointments

After a pet has been treated for an illness or has undergone surgery, follow-up care is just as important as the initial treatment. This could involve recheck appointments, medication adjustments, or monitoring progress. Even if a pet seems to have fully recovered, missing follow-up visits can delay recovery, and in some cases, allow a condition to worsen.

5. Pet Insurance is a Lifesaver

While not every pet owner is keen on purchasing pet insurance, it can be a game-changer when it comes to unexpected medical costs. Pet insurance can help ease the financial burden of emergency care, surgeries, or ongoing treatments. Many plans offer a wide range of coverage options, and starting early can significantly help keep out-of-pocket costs down in the long run.

6. Spaying/Neutering Pets Isn’t Just To Prevent Puppies

While preventing unwanted puppies/kittens is often the primary reason for spaying or neutering pets, there are other health benefits to these procedures. Spaying females can prevent possibly fatal uterine infections (pyometra) and significantly reduce the risk of mammary cancer. Neutering males can prevent prostate problems and eliminate the risk of testicular cancer.

7. It is Okay to Ask About Options

When a pet needs treatment, there are often different approaches and options available. In these types of situations, it is important to be fully educated about all possible options. It is okay to ask about the pros and cons of each treatment, alternative therapies, or if there are any less invasive options. Vets will be happy to discuss different options, and sometimes, there are more affordable or holistic alternatives that can be considered depending on the pet’s condition.