A recent article in USA Today highlights some of the challenges faced by both pet owners and veterinary practices as they work to keep pets healthy during these difficult times.

The public health and safety measures initiated by veterinary offices have led to longer wait times for appointments, both in booking them and waiting for the vet to see your pet on appointment day.

According to the report, some emergency clinics are seeing wait times of up to 8 hours and non-emergency vet appointments are being scheduled 3-6 weeks in advance.

The American Veterinary Medical Association says that the average wait time at clinics has doubled over the past year, however, most wait times at local practices are only around a half hour.

Veterinarians are facing many difficulties during the pandemic that pet owners should understand.  They are implementing public health practices that may mean you cannot enter the office with your pet.  This is for the health of everyone involved.

The recent increase in pet ownership means that more pets need care.  Spending more time at home with our pets has also led to owners noticing health issues they might not have seen before.

Your vet may also be having the same difficulties obtaining their usual supplies that you are when you go to the store.  If you get prescription food or medicine through your vet, expect disruptions in the supply chain.

Veterinarians are urging their clients to adjust their expectations and plan ahead.  You may have to schedule non-critical care a few weeks in advance.  Place orders for supplies well ahead of the time you expect to run out.

Be aware that you may not be permitted to enter the clinic or accompany your pet in the exam room.  If you have been exposed to the virus, ask someone else to take your pet to the vet for you, to keep clinic staff safe.

“Everybody’s kind of adapting,” said one veterinarian.  He asks pet owners for “grace and kindness” as veterinarians and their staff work to keep pets healthy.