A Caring Hand and a Gentle Touch

What Kind Of Services Does Your Local Animal Hospital Have?

Most pet owners don't really think of using animal hospitals that often. Even if you use one in your animal's primary care, you probably don't think about it that much unless it's time for shots, a checkup, or an emergency. If you normally use an animal clinic, here's a look at what animal hospitals can offer you and your pet. 

What's the Difference Between a Veterinary Clinic and an Animal Hospital?

A Veterinary Clinic is generally the practice of one, sometimes two veterinarians and their staff. An animal or veterinary hospital is generally larger, with more practicing veterinarians. Many animal hospitals also offer emergency service overnight, when many clinics are closed. They also have more staff that they can spare on nursing duties and related services, as well as offering more resources and larger facilities.

It's really that simple. And there are vet practices that offer the same kind of benefits that many animal hospitals do, of course, but these are broad generalizations to give you an overall idea of what to expect.

So what kind of services might they offer?

1. Boarding

Many clinics and animal hospitals offer boarding, but animal hospitals often have larger facilities and more staff, so it might be worth looking into for that alone. The advantage of boarding with a facility that has a veterinary practice is that you know that if something crops up, they're in good hands. This is especially important when you have a dog who has special diet needs, is on medication, or otherwise dealing with a chronic condition.

2. Dental Care

Taking care of your pet's dental health is really important and can be really difficult. If you've ever tried to brush your cat's teeth, you know how tricky it can be, and how sometimes that can lead to bloodshed. (Your blood, generally.) Animal hospitals can help do a thorough cleaning and give your pet a sedative to avoid causing them distress or the vet injury. They can also help you work out the best way to handle your pet's dental health without unduly stressing them or causing any injury.

3. Surgery

Many clinics do handle some surgeries, but they tend to be best at minor surgeries while referring you to someone else for major surgeries. If you have a preferred hospital, they often will work with the hospital, so it might behoove you to do some research and determine which local animal hospital you think would be the best fit. Even if you never use their facilities for any other reason, you never know if your pet may need major surgery that your local clinic can't handle.

Learn more about animal hospitals by contacting a few like Kenmore Veterinary Hospital.


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