Taking Your Pet to the Vet During Lockdown

The best part about being home during the lockdown is that you get to spend more time with your pets (and we’re sure they feel the same!). This is the one time where you’ve been around your pets the most so you’re more inclined to notice their habits, antics, and behaviours. This makes it easy to pick up if your pet’s behaviour isn’t their normal, adorable selves. For all the effort you put into keeping your four-legged friend healthy, you can’t prevent sicknesses. So, what do you do if your pet falls ill or suffers an injury? Here’s what you need to know about visiting your vet during lockdown.

Are Vets An Essential Service?

When South Africa went into lockdown on March 26, the government’s list of essential services thankfully included veterinary care. However, the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) stated that not all procedures are essential.

The SAVC advises that vets may not provide the following services during lockdown:

• Grooming services
• House calls for routine procedures like vaccinations
• Some procedures unless deemed a medical emergency. These include spays, nail clipping/break trimming, etc.

If you’re not sure whether your pet’s condition is deemed a necessity for a vet visit, call your nearest vet and ask about their COVID-19 protocol. Alternatively, you can contact your local animal welfare for more information on lockdown regulations.

Visiting Your Vet During Lockdown

Veterinary services are considered an essential service during the lockdown as an emergency medical aid. Naturally, there are safety precautions for veterinarians and their support staff as well as their clients and patients. There must be no physical human contact unless necessary to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Depending on the veterinarian, if your pet was booked for a minor procedure or check-up before lockdown, your appointment will likely be rescheduled. Phone and follow up with your vet and ask for a new appointment if your pet is due for a procedure.

If your animal does need urgent medical attention, call your vet, and ask if they can arrange an animal ambulance to come and collect your pet for treatment. If you are the one driving your pet to the vet, call ahead, and ask about their lockdown protocol. Always follow their instructions. Remember that these measures are there for the well-being of all parties involved.

Should your pet get sick, call your vet first and confirm their operating hours. Book an appointment and make sure it falls under the essential treatments only list. Bear in mind that this will depend on the vet’s lockdown protocol. Most practices will only allow one person per pet provided they allow you to enter with your pet.

Although animal emergency services are operating, all lockdown protocols must be followed, since these are here to protect both you and your pet. Please comply and respect these guidelines, when getting your pet, the care it needs.