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The New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) is urging animal owners to remember PET to improve the way people use veterinary emergency services.
The campaign asks owners to follow three simple steps if their pet is sick or hurt, and their vet clinic is closed.
Pause: Think for a moment about whether your pet needs emergency care or could be seen by their vet during business hours.
Emergency call: Phone your vet 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.
NZVA spokesperson Sally Cory says keeping veterinary emergency services for emergencies only means very sick animals can receive the treatment they need quickly, and vet teams are not overwhelmed.
“There are currently too many animals being seen by emergency service providers that do not require emergency care,” she says.
Animal owners are also being asked to help prevent emergencies from happening by keeping routine vaccinations up-to-date; booking daytime appointments wherever possible; providing plenty of shade and shelter for their animals; and ensuring pets are safe and secure while at home and out in the community.
Owners who are travelling with their pets during the holidays are encouraged to find out where their closest vet will be, and pack any animal medication.
For more information about the campaign, visit nzva.org.nz/emergencycare.
