A question for veterinarians?

Question

I have worked in various aspects of pet food sales for many years and am always amazed when a client calls me for medical advice that I am clearly not trained in. I understand there are some things that simply cannot be addressed over the phone, but as a vet, where do you draw the line between giving advice or telling someone they must bring their pet in to you?  Do you have a policy in place, or is it delt with on a case by case basis?

jackyl · Accepted Answer

I am a veterinarian and I am always dealing with this issue.  My policy is to never diagnose over the phone because no matter how well a client describes the symptoms over the phone, you never know what they are not telling you that you would find out with a simple exam.  So I handle all these on a case-by-case basis.  I listen to what they say and triage the situation.  If anything they say hints to a potential emergency, I have them come in to be seen right away.  If it sounds like a non-emergency situation I'll talk to them about possible causes, have them monitor the situation, and schedule a routine exam at their convienence if they are still concerned.  Basically though, I always cover my butt by telling them I would be happy to schedule an appointment for them regardless of the situation.  Hope this helps.

Alison · Answer

I am not a vet but worked at a vets.

Depends on the situation .. ear infection or something that sounds like a possible ear infection come one in next available appointment.

Its pretty much common sense things, dry skin, itchy skin etc etc .... could be the food, could be this or that .... don't know unless you see a vet.

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A question for veterinarians?

2 Answers