How to Be Prepared for an Unexpected Vet Visit
When it comes to pet ownership, it’s best to be prepared for the unexpected. While keeping up with your annual wellness visits is important, preparing for an unexpected vet visit ahead of time can save you a lot of money, strife, and time. Here are tips on preparing for those vet visits that you were not expecting:
Keep Contact Information Ready
Whether traveling with your pet, leaving him with a trusted sitter or kennel, or in an emergency, you should always have contact information ready. This should include your name and number, your vet’s contact information, and a few emergency vets in the area. The faster you (or someone else) can access this information, the faster they can get the necessary care for your pet. You should also consider microchipping your pet in case you get separated— that way, someone can find your information to help reunite you.
Know Where You Are Going
If you are dealing with an unexpected vet visit, you want to get the medical care your pet needs as soon as possible. Part of being prepared for these visits means knowing where you’re going. Include directions to your regular veterinarian and other area emergency rooms with the contact information above. If you’re traveling, look up local vets in the area(s) where you’ll be traveling. Keeping this information close at hand can save you a lot of time—especially when you are preoccupied with worry for your sick pet.
Keep Your Pet’s Medical Records Close
Your pet will get the best medical care if the veterinarian has the most complete picture of his or her health. Ask your regular veterinarian to give you online access to your pet’s medical records, or have them email you a copy so you can easily access them anywhere. You should also keep an up-to-date list of your pet’s prescriptions (including the proper dosages) with you.
Make a Financial Plan
The cost of an unexpected vet visit can be overwhelming for a lot of families. Don’t let these costs result in a big financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover some of the costs of unexpected care. There are different tiers of coverage depending on your needs and your financial situation. You can also open a pet savings account with certain banks and credit unions, which helps you save a lump sum for potential pet care costs. One benefit of a pet savings account is it will earn interest when you don’t use it. You can even set up an estate plan for your pets in your will to ensure they get care when you are no longer available to provide it.
While it is impossible to predict every situation where a pet might need veterinary care, Oakland Veterinary Referral Services is here to provide specialty and emergency vet services when needed. Our team wants to do everything possible to offer you and your pets the care you need. To learn more, please call (248) 334-6877.
