What Happens During the Vet Visit

At the Vet 

You and your pet will be brought into the room and a veterinary nurse will take your pet’s heart rate, respiratory rate, weight, and temperature. PLEASE WARN THE NURSE IF YOUR PET IS KNOWN TO BITE! If that is the case, a muzzle should be applied prior to the examination and proper steps are taken to keep everyone safe. The nurse will likely ask you basic history questions, such as any symptoms that your pet is experiencing, medications, diet, etc. The nurse will then go get the doctor. The doctor will go over the brief history with you again to clarify any questions (yes, this can seem redundant but oftentimes we get conflicting answers or new information is discovered the more times we ask). The veterinarian will do a physical exam on your pet that includes listening to the heart and lungs (called auscultation), palpating the abdomen and joints, and examining the skin, eyes, and ears. If problems are found or further testing needs to be done, the vet will discuss any further testing and costs associated with them. Once you and the veterinarian agree on the next steps, they will most likely take your pet to a treatment room to perform the tests (blood work, ultrasounds, etc). Usually, the vets and nurses do these tests away from you – there are many reasons for this, including the safety of the restraining team, minimizing risks to you, and encouraging good workflow.  Some tests can be done with you present, but we also need to consider if your pet will blame you for the tests or not. Once the tests are performed, your vet will go over the results that are available that day. Any pending test results will be discussed when they are available.   

Your veterinarian and their nurses will send you home with clear instructions, even if tests are pending. Make sure that the medication instructions are clear to you and all of your questions are answered regarding special needs – walks, grooming, food, etc – before you leave. If there is something that is confusing, do not be afraid to ask for written instructions. Take time to think ahead and ask for follow-up appointments in one year’s time or sooner, depending on the problem.   

Payment 

You should always be prepared to pay the bill at the time of the visit.  Don’t be afraid to ask for an estimate of costs prior to agreeing to any testing. If your pet has to be hospitalized, you will need to leave a deposit. Most veterinary offices do not allow payment plans, but there may be financing available.   

Follow-Up 

Your veterinarian is the best person to ask any health related questions regarding your pet. While social media is a great place to go for memes and support, it is best to contact your veterinarian directly if you are concerned or have questions about your pet.