House call service for pets is when a veterinarian visits your pet at home for medical treatment or diagnostics purposes in Singapore.
There are many advantages to house call services. House call services can be a convenient option for several pet owners. Some pets get very anxious and stressed at the veterinary clinic, which may hinder the vet’s ability to treat them properly. Cats, in particular, experience high levels of stress at the vet. In familiar environments, pets are often less stressed. Additionally, pet owners may be unable to bring their pet to the vet due to various reasons, such as transportation issues, disabled or elderly owners, or if the pet is too sick or too large.
It can also be a strain for those with multiple pets to bring all their pets in for routine procedures such as annual check-ups and vaccinations. In these instances, they can still get quality medical care and attention for their pet at home. Pets are also less exposed to infectious diseases compared to visiting a veterinary clinic.
However, there are also restrictions for house call services, as the veterinarian will not have access to certain available resources at a clinic. For example, imaging tests such as ultrasounds, X-rays, and surgeries such as sterilisation and lumpectomies cannot be done at home as they need equipment and a sterile environment. In these cases, a vet may recommend bringing your pet to the clinic or hospital for further testing and medical care after diagnosing them at home.
In general, house call services often include:
At Dr Paws Vet Care, we offer house call services for diagnostics and treatment. Please contact us for the complete list of services we provide for house calls.
For house call services, you’ll have to book an appointment with the veterinarian in advance so that they can come over. Veterinary fees are typically higher, depending on the clinic you engage. It is best to provide your veterinarian with all the relevant information needed so that they can prepare accordingly for the house call visit. For example, if your pets need annual vaccinations or a particular medication, they will need to bring them along.
Veterinarians are trained in treating your pets, so rest assured that they provide the same level of care that they would at the clinic. At home, prepare a quiet room where your pet feels comfortable, with limited distractions, so your pet does not feel too stressed out. Introduce your pet to the veterinarian in calming tones as you would with a house guest. You should also have all your pet’s medical records on hand and other documents needed for your vet.
House calls can treat a wide range of conditions for pets without the added stress of bringing them to the clinic. Veterinarians can diagnose these conditions and perform several procedures at your home. These include:
Depending on your pet’s health, you can expect your veterinarian to treat them according to their symptoms and needs. If they cannot perform certain procedures at your home, they will inform you and arrange further appointments or an emergency trip to the hospital. You can expect that routine procedures such as temperature checks, vaccinations, and preventive care can easily be done at home by your vet.
It depends on your pet’s health condition. If your pet needs further monitoring or checking of a wound, your vet may need to return for follow-up sessions. Your trusted vet can advise you on how many house call sessions are required.
Can I schedule a house call when my pet is sick?
Yes, we can examine your pet, diagnose most illnesses at home, prescribe medication, and provide treatment. However, if your pet needs additional tests, such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or echocardiogram, these may need to be performed at our clinic or hospital.
Do house calls cost more than going to the vet's office?
There are usually extra charges for house calls in addition to the usual veterinary fees. For more information about our house call fees, contact us.
What does it mean when a vet makes a house call?
Vets can perform several services within the home during a house call. It can be for routine procedures or emergency services, depending on the pet’s health. This is the least stressful option for pets compared to visits to a clinic or hospital. It is also a convenient option for pet owners.