Pet owners are being encouraged to register with a veterinary clinic, understand what services they provide, and have a robust emergency plan in place.
Veterinary Council of New Zealand (VCNZ) professional adviser Seton Butler says the veterinary profession is facing resource shortages and staffing issues similar to that of the public health system, so people need to take this into account in planning their animals’ healthcare.
“If you have not registered with a clinic, or researched what to do when an emergency happens, you won’t know who to call or where to go,” Butler said. “That puts you under pressure, and if you just turn up to a clinic, the vet won’t know you are coming or be ready to meet you.
“If you are registered with a clinic, you know where you are going, the hours they are open, and the availability of emergency services provided by the veterinary clinic to their clients.”
For instance, some larger centres in New Zealand will advise patients to travel directly to a dedicated emergency clinic. These facilities are staffed by veterinarians experienced in treating emergencies and have vet nurses on call.