Visiting your vet
Regular health checks for companion animals (pets) are important. Cats and dogs age quickly, and it's always best to catch medical problems early on. We recommend yearly checks.
As well as treating your pet, veterinarians can give you advice on how best to look after your animal to prevent health problems. They can provide advice on feeding, nurturing, training and exercise.
When you visit a veterinarian, you'll be asked general information about your pet and their medical history. This information will be kept on file and updated each time you attend the veterinary clinic.
The veterinary staff will advise you of costs for routine treatments and procedures, such as desexing, x-rays, dental work, vaccinations and microchipping. If your pet's case is more complicated, staff will give you an estimated cost, but the total will depend on the diagnosis and the course of treatment. Your vet team will keep you updated.
Veterinary practices are well equipped to test and treat pets on-site for a wide range of medical problems. However, where there is a serious problem or an emergency, your vet may refer you to a veterinarian who specialises in a particular area.
Many pet owners take out pet insurance to cover medical emergencies.
Animal emergencies can happen any time of day. If your pet is unwell or hurt and your vet clinic is closed, please follow these three steps:
- Pause. Think for a moment about whether your pet needs emergency care or could be seen by their vet during normal business hours.
- Emergency call. Phone your vet clinic for advice if you think your pet needs emergency care or you’re unsure.
- Take. Follow the advice you receive to either take your pet to an emergency service provider, or book an appointment during normal business hours.
If you test positive for COVID-19, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora recommends you isolate for at least five days, even if you only have mild symptoms.
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 and your pet needs to visit a veterinarian, please contact your veterinary practice for advice. Non-urgent appointments should be deferred until you have completed your isolation to protect the health of your vet team and other clients.
If your pet needs a more urgent vet visit, you may need to arrange for someone outside your household to take your pet to the clinic.
If you have a complaint about the service you've received from your veterinarian, you should raise it directly with the vet first.
You can ask to see the practice manager or principal veterinarian for the practice if you're not comfortable talking directly to the veterinarian.
If you're not satisfied with the response, or for more information, contact New Zealand's regulating body, the Veterinary Council of New Zealand (VCNZ).
