FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare for an emergency involving my pet?

It is crucial to devise an emergency strategy to ensure that you are well prepared in the unforeseen circumstance of your cat or dog requiring immediate medical attention.

  • Work out the time required to reach the nearest emergency veterinary clinic – the travel duration is more important than the physical distance.
  • Record the contact details of the emergency clinic and store them in an easily accessible location, such as on your refrigerator or saved on your phone to avoid wasting time searching for this information in the event of an emergency.
  • Keep a record of all the medications that your pet is currently taking (if applicable).

If I suspect my pet is unwell, can I seek a telephone diagnosis from a veterinarian?

Determining whether your pet’s condition is an emergency can sometimes be challenging. If you are unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and contact us. Our trained staff can assess the situation and provide guidance on whether immediate attention is necessary.

In emergencies, it is not feasible for veterinarians to provide diagnoses over the telephone. A comprehensive physical examination is indispensable for our veterinarian to ascertain an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

Is my pet's condition an emergency?

Determining whether your pet’s condition is an emergency can sometimes be challenging. If you are unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and contact us. Our trained staff can assess the situation and provide guidance on whether immediate attention is necessary.

Under what circumstances would my pet be required to remain overnight for treatment?

Certain veterinary emergencies necessitate extensive care that extends through the night. At 24 Hour Vetcare facilities, we can offer overnight care for animals in critical condition.

During their stay at our facility, our committed professionals will administer care to your pet with the same dedication and attention as if they were our own.

Can I use your emergency service despite my surgery using another night service?

Absolutely! Yes, we provide our services for all clinics. There is a priority for our subscribed practices.

What happens if my pet is admitted to the hospital?

The vet will ask you to sign a consent form and discuss the hospitalisation process.
You will receive updates at least once a day. These updates will include a clinical update and a financial summary if requested.

Please feel free to call the surgery at other times for updates.

Can I visit my pet if they are in the hospital?

This depends on the nature of the admission. Sometimes, pets benefit from the visits, but at other times, they become depressed when the owner leaves. This is to be discussed and arranged with inpatient vets and nursing team to determine what is best for your pet. We ask that visits be limited to a maximum of 15-20 minutes to avoid interruption to the hospital service. Visits can be cancelled at short notice if deemed necessary.

What strategies and precautions are implemented to mitigate pain associated with surgical procedures or injuries?

Leveraging our expertise in pain management, we are committed to employing comprehensive measures to prevent and alleviate pain in your pet. We will meticulously design a pain management regimen catered to your pet’s unique medical condition and individual requirements if needed.

Do I need to have a leash or carrier during a hospital visit?

To ensure the safety and well-being of all our clients and our veterinary team members, we request that pets be securely restrained by a leash or within a carrier upon arrival. This precaution should be adhered to in the reception area and during transit to and from the examination rooms. Our veterinarians or nurses will inform you when it is appropriate and safe to release your pet from its leash or carrier.

Our hospitals are often a hub of activity, encompassing unfamiliar environments and the presence of various pets. This can lead to even the most well-trained pets experiencing a degree of unease or heightened excitement. To ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for you and your pet, we respectfully request that all our clients comply with this request.

If this is not possible, please inform us by calling us.

Is the expense of an emergency consult covered under my pet insurance policy?

The coverage of emergency medical expenses will depend upon the specific terms of your pet insurance policy, the nature of the coverage provided, and the circumstances surrounding your pet’s condition.

Insurance policies for pets vary, offering distinct levels of protection and coverage. Each policy will set out a range of deductibles and premiums, with emergency coverage often being an elective component within these policies. To ascertain whether your pet’s policy includes emergency services, it is advisable to review the policy documentation or contact your insurance provider directly.

Pet insurance is an essential safeguard, ensuring that your pet can always access healthcare services.

How does the finance option work?

Our finance options are designed to help you manage the cost of emergency care. You can apply for zero-percent financing, making it easier to cover unexpected expenses. Our staff will happily assist you in applying for financing and explaining the terms and conditions.

Can I get an estimate of costs?

Yes, we can provide you with a detailed estimate of the expected costs for your pet’s care. We believe in transparent pricing, and our team will discuss the treatment plan and associated costs with you before proceeding with any procedures.

Can I have a house visit?

Currently, our primary focus is providing care at our clinics. House visits are generally unavailable for emergency cases, as our clinics have the necessary equipment and resources for comprehensive care.

We can provide you with a list of emergency ambulance services.

What criteria do you employ in the selection of your vets?

At 24 Hour Vetcare, we are committed to delivering the best possible care. This commitment extends to the meticulous selection process of our veterinary professionals. We prioritise continuity of care, offering advanced medical equipment, comfortable facilities, and transparent pricing. We are committed to providing the highest standard of care with empathy and compassion.

We have:

  • Experienced night vets
  • Permanent staff
  • Well-equipped services
  • Network of night clinics
  • Support from experienced day vets and hospitals

Our emergency care veterinarians and support staff are chosen through an exacting screening protocol, which evaluates key factors such as qualifications, clinical training, and ongoing professional development.

What makes your night service superior to other places?

Our night service stands out due to our experienced and permanent night and inpatient veterinary team. We prioritise continuity of care, offering advanced medical equipment, comfortable facilities, and transparent pricing. We are committed to providing the highest standard of care with empathy and compassion.

We have:

  • Experienced night vets
  • Permanent staff
  • Well-equipped services
  • Network of night clinics
  • Support from experienced day vets and hospitals