From:
"Stephanie"
Date: 2002-11-03 06:15:27 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] ferret emergencies
To: <ferrethealth@smartgroups.com>
Message-ID: <001301c28300$68bd24a0$600ea118@computer>
I would just like to add to Patti K's 2 cents worth about ferret
emergencies.
I have been a vet assistant at a emergency vet clinic. My advice is first
find out if your vet does emergency work after hours - it usually costs more
because your vet has to come back to work but it may be worth it. If your
vet doesn't - call the local ER vet and find out if they do treat ferrets or
sometimes they have an arrangement with another exotic vet that they can
page if you have an emergency (this was the case at the clinic I worked at).
The next advice is know how to get to the ER clinic and be comfortable with
getting there, this is important no matter what animal you have. Trust me,
the very LAST thing you want to do is be getting directions and then trying
to find a clinic in the dark while you are stressed out because of your
pet's emergency.
My experience with ER vet clinic (having worked at one and gone with my
puppy to a different one in another state) is that the prices for services
are pretty comparible to what you would pay at your normal vet with the
exception of the emergency fee (which you would have probably been charged
at your normal vet too if after hours). Keep in mind that most ER vets are
only opne after hours and it is difficult to staff for those hours so it
gets reflected in the cost of treatment. Also don't expect much in the way
of payment plans as most often ER vets get burned with the bills because you
don't (hopefully) have to come back. But they usually will try to work with
your budget if possible.
One last thing - agreeing whole heartly with Patti - don't be surprised that
the ER vet clinics don't give too much advice over the phone and suggest
that you come in. It is amazingly difficult to tell what is wrong based on
an owner's description. Plus, just like human medicine by dignosing an
animal over the phone without seeing them, and making a mistake because of
the owner's description, leaves vets open to lawsuits. My experience is if
you are worried enough to call, then you should probably go in and have your
pet seen.
Best wishes and may you never had to use an ER vet for a true emergency. :)
Stephanie G.