LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Keeping your pets healthy is important, and that’s why veterinarians are considered essential. Still, just like almost everyone else, your pet’s doctor has been forced to change up the way he or she does business. 13 Investigates anchor Tricia Kean shows what’s new.
"We do not allow clients to congregate in the waiting room," says Dr. Brian Hewitt.
Cheyenne West Animal Hospital is practicing social distancing. Dogs, cats and other furry friends are welcome. But they're asking humans to stay outside.
"When they call us to let us know that they are here, one of our staff members will come up to the car and retrieve the pet and bring the pet in. We have the client waiting in the car," says Dr. Brian Hewitt.
It's a practice that longtime client, Denise, truly appreciates.
"Because I have my 90-year-old mom living with me. So I’m very very cautious. Probably more cautious than most," says Denise.
She brought in Princess, after she started chewing on her tail. She says the hospital's new practice is actually really efficient.
"While the doctor was examining her, the doctor called me on my phone, told me everything that was going on... Then they brought her back out and the guy who brought her out even had photos of everything they did," says Denise.
The hospital then takes a payment over the phone, so no one ever has to come inside. In certain circumstance if someone needs to bring their pet inside, the hospital makes sure to let only one person into the waiting room at a time. But it's important to note, they're cutting back on some routine services.
"For example spays and neuters. Most spays and neuters are not urgent procedures," says Dr. Brian Hewitt.
Some of the more critical services still being offered include the parvo and rabies vaccine. The bottom line, if your furry family member needs something, just call and ask.
"Call your veterinarian and discuss what’s going on. They will advise you whether or not they feel it’s urgent enough that you need to come in or if it’s something that can wait," says Dr. Brian Hewitt.
