1. Caring Veterinarians Go Beyond What Is Expected Of Them Loving pet owners understand the anguish one experiences when the family pet is not well, or when it hurts and needs the attention of the veterinarian. Pets are more than animals: they take their place alongside the family members and receive the same love and care one would afford a child or other family member. They also have needs beyond shelter and food – they often need medical care too, whether this refers to preventive care such as taking them in for their regular checkups so that a wellness test and exam can be performed to help prevent conditions and problems that could cause them discomfort and pain, and to help prevent life-threatening conditions where that is possible. And, of course, all cats and dogs, from the time they are mere kittens and puppies, need to see the vet for their vaccinations which helps to prevent conditions and which are administered to boost their immune system. Therefore appointments are made with the veterinarian’s rooms to ensure they can be seen as per prior arrangement. In certain cases veterinarians also offer house calls for pets, especially if they know the owners well, and if they have, over time, formed a bond with the animal. Circumstances will differ, but this a service that most veterinarians will offer if it is too difficult to bring the pet to his/her rooms, such as a pet that moves only with difficulty, or a pet you are scared to pick up and put them in a vehicle for fear of hurting them. Individual cases demand their own approach. The obvious benefit for the pet and the owner is that by not leaving their house and environment, the pet benefits from staying in the safe confines of the space they know best. It causes less stress and trauma for all. Having to transport the pet to the veterinarian’s rooms comes with its own problems, especially when the pet is old, or blind, or deaf, or hurt. Sitting in your car, being shaken around, can make the pet so much more nervous and can cause further hurt – and even injury when, for example, you are forced to stop abruptly. If you really have to take the pet to the clinic, then at least strap it in or transport it in a carrier. This is true more so for cats perhaps than for dogs, since they are not so easy to control at the best of times, let alone when they are sick and traumatized. The house call may be what is needed for the consultation and maybe even the treatment, which will depend on the severity of an injury, or an emergency situation. These situations may actually exacerbate the pet’s condition and lead to more stress, unusual behavior, panting, restlessness and severe emotional trauma, in addition to the physical problem they – and the owner – are faced with. For the client the house call also has benefits. It means less stress, and they can offer the pet comfort in a space they are familiar with, as opposed to an animal clinic with its strange smells and other fearful pets around them. Also, during house calls for the pet, the owner often has more time to voice their concerns and to ask the veterinarian all pertinent questions so as to form a better understanding of their pet’s illness and the way forward. And, of course, when it is time to say goodbye to that beloved pet, euthanasia at home is, for many, the preferred option. This is a service that many veterinarians do offer: home euthanasia. Especially when they know the owner and their pet well. The house call for pets may not always be necessary, but when it is, it is good to know that caring veterinarians go beyond what is expected of them. About Us : At Powell Veterinary Service we offer all pet owners almost 30 years of dedicated, unrivalled service to ensure their pets remain healthy and happy. We offer great experience and are proud of the services we offer regarding all aspects of animal care. We perform surgeries, we spay and neuter, we offer boarding facilities, and we provide puppies for different activities that appeal to our clients. At PVS we also offer a wellness service for pets to ensure any conditions are picked up early. We are Kersey, CO based and serve the surrounding areas. We are available by appointment, but also for emergency situations. Pets are our passion, and we ensure that your animal receives excellent treatment from our practice. For more about us please visit https://powellvets.com/