The Vet Online – Replacement or a nice addition?
Recently our Coco was shaking her head more often than usual. There was clearly something stuck in her ear, because she kept trying to wriggle something out with her paw. She didn't seem to be bothered by it, but it wasn't really comfortable either. What do you do in a situation like that? Call the vet or not? Going to the vet for something so small felt a bit excessive. The costs also haunted us a bit. After much deliberation, we went anyway.
Do you know this dilemma? Not very serious but would you like some advice?
Discover the vet online
Since corona, the number of pets has increased significantly. According to research , the number of households with a pet has increased by almost 2%. Almost 80,000 households have gotten a dog. And with the dog, many more questions have also arisen for veterinarians. From vaccination to sterilization and other questions. It is very logical that it is sometimes a bit much for veterinarians, since the number of veterinarians has not grown since the pandemic.
In addition to the increase in pets in recent years, the realization that things can be arranged remotely has also increased. Working from home, doing groceries, but also asking a vet for advice online has become more normal. An online vet can help you with many questions.
When to choose advice from an online veterinarian?
If there is an emergency, or your pet needs a physical examination, you would always choose the vet! But there are many situations where an online vet can help.
Here are some examples of issues and symptoms you can discuss with an online vet:
- Allergies, itching, rashes, ear infections and insect bites
- Flea and tick infestations
- Dietary advice, weight management and behavioral problems
- Back pain, sprains, cuts and bruises
- Mild cough and bronchitis
- Urinary problems, vomiting and diarrhea
- Follow-up consultations after surgery
The benefits of an online vet
Accessibility: An online vet provides access to veterinary care from any location with internet access. This is especially useful for pets living in remote areas where access to a vet is limited or for people who do not have the ability to travel to the vet with their pet.
Save time and money: Visiting a veterinary practice can be time-consuming and expensive. With an online vet, you don’t have to travel and you usually pay less for the services.
Comfort and Convenience: For some pets, a trip to the vet can be a stressful experience. With an online vet, you can receive care for your pet in a comfortable and familiar environment.
Flexibility: An online vet often offers flexible hours and in some cases may be available outside of normal office hours.
The disadvantages of an online vet
Limited examination possibilities: An online veterinarian cannot physically examine and diagnose. A blood test, x-ray or ultrasound is not possible remotely. For this you will really have to go to a physical veterinarian. If you feel that the situation is serious, choose an appointment with the veterinarian, so that you prevent delays in the treatment of your pet.
Limited treatment options: Some treatments, such as surgeries and other procedures, cannot be performed online. If your pet needs surgery or other (complex) medical intervention, visit your veterinary practice.
Conclusion - Veterinarian online replacement or supplement?
While an online vet can be a helpful support to a physical vet, it’s important to remember that it’s not a complete replacement, especially in the case of emergency care. The role of an online vet is to catch and prevent problems early, but if you have any doubts about the severity of your pet’s condition, it’s best to contact a physical vet. That said, an online vet can adequately resolve about 70 percent of pet issues.
Ps still curious how Coco ended up? She turned out to have too much earwax, which we could easily solve. Since we would pay for a whole consultation, our sweet vet also did her annual check-up. That way we got value for our money and we know that Coco is completely healthy.
Do you have a question for a vet that you can also ask online?
Cooper & Quint works together with Cooper Pet Care.
With the code NLCQwelkomsactie you get the first online consultation (worth €24.99) for free. You can easily make an appointment online via cooperpetcare.com .
