Which Type Of Veterinary Practice Does Your Animal Need?

When an animal is sick or injured, your first reaction is to look up the nearest veterinary practice and get an appointment. In general, this is a good plan. However, not all vets are equal. While it is true that they have all studied and learned how to take care of animals, some of them have gone on to specialize in different areas of veterinary medicine. Take a few minutes and consider the following to determine the best course of action for the animal.

Companion Animal Veterinarian

Most veterinarians are companion animal doctors. They take care of household pets including cats, dogs, and some smaller animals. They can provide routine preventive care as well as emergency care including surgery. These doctors are the primary care doctors for your pets. However, it is a good idea to call and ask if they care for animals other than cats and dogs. While they may be able to help with routine care with your different pets, they may refer you to a different type of vet for an emergency situation.

Exotic Pet Veterinarian

While you may not consider your sugar glider or pet rabbit exotic, you may be referred to an exotic pet doctor to care for them. These doctors not only take care of truly exotic animals like those found in a zoo or on a special animal reservation, but they also take care of small pets. Reptiles, birds, and rodents can be seen by these doctors. Even if the companion vet is capable of caring for your small pet, it is often best to go with an exotic pet vet as they deal with these animals more often.

Farm and Large Animal Veterinarian

When it comes to caring for farm animals like horses, sheep, and cows, you should contact a farm or large animal veterinarian. These doctors will come to your home to do the initial exam. If they can provide the treatment there, it will be done too. However, you may need to take the animal to a large animal hospital if special treatment or surgery is required. These doctors can also help with determining the best nutritional program for the animals and make sure any animals to be used for human food are healthy and safe for slaughtering and consumption.

Proper care for your animals is an important responsibility. Regardless of the species, they count on you to keep them healthy. Any time you notice something is off, contact the veterinary practice that will help them. A healthy animal is happy and safe to be around. For more information, contact a company like Elemental Pet Vets.


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