Vet Waiting Room Etiquette

Let's talk about proper vet waiting room etiquette. When you're taking your pet to the veterinarian there may be a lot of different pets in the waiting room. To keep the experience as peaceful as possible there are some things that all pet owners should do. The following are some easy rules to follow.

Pets owners need to be courteous while at the vet. Don't just pet other animals without asking their owner. Try not to bring all your pets at once and leave your children at home unless they are older and helping you with your pet. Small children may be too loud and curious to safely be around pets that are scared or sick at the vet's office.

Restrain cats. Yes, you may think your cat is friendly and that you can just hold them, but if they get frighten they can easily scratch you and get out of your hands. You don't know what other animals will be in the waiting room, a dog could come in a scare your cat. Plus, you don't want your cat to run out the door when someone opens it. Keep your cat on a leash or in a cat carrier. This is the easiest and safest option for you and your cat.

Dogs should also be restrained. Dogs may try to chase other animals in a waiting room. Dogs can sometimes be aggressive and you don't want them to bite another pet owner either. Your dog should definitely be on a leash the entire time it's at the veterinarian's office. If you have a large dog and it's not on a leash you will not be able to control it.

A vet waiting room isn't like a dog park. Pets are often scared or ill so it's not the best time to try to socialize your animal and have it make new friends. Your pet may always be well behaved, but a lot of times your pet can surprise you at a visit to the vet. To avoid any stress, fights, or spread of illness you are better off keeping your pet away from others.

If your pet is uncomfortable in a packed waiting room tell the receptionist that you will be waiting outside. You can even call them from your cell phone to avoid having to even go in the full room.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.