BROCKTON, MASS. (WHDH) - We’re all supposed to stay at least six feet from one another during this pandemic, but if your pet needs to see a vet, how are you supposed to do that? We found the state just released a new policy to help animal health care workers on the front line.
At the Brockton Animal Hospital, like many clinics in Massachusetts, pet owners now hand their cat or dog over to vet techs wearing masks who bring the animal inside to see a masked veterinarian.
“It’s pretty bizarre,” Veterinarian Ronald Hirschberg said.
The animal’s owner waits outside, and if they do have to come inside, Dr. Hirschberg says these markings on the floor remind owners to maintain their social distance.
“I’ve been through some strange things in the years I’ve been in practice and this is clearly one of the most challenging,” Dr. Hirschberg said.
To ease the number of complicated vet visits like this– and lessen the potential transmission of the coronavirus, the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Veterinary Medicine approved new policy guidelines that “permit the use of Telemedicine” “permit the use of Telemedicine” for vets during the state of emergency.
“I think its extremely important,” Hirschberg said.
The telemedicine policy says vets must have an existing “Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship” with the animal’s owner unless it’s an extreme emergency. Also, the vet has “sufficient knowledge of the patient to initiate at least a preliminary diagnosis” and can “follow-up.”
Doctor Hirshberg says while telemedicine is a valuable tool, especially treating minor health problems, nothing beats a vet actually seeing your pet.
“I think certainly it has its role, but it’s not a replacement,” Dr. Hirschberg said.
If your pet has a medical issue experts say immediately call your vet. They’ll help you decide if telemedicine may work or they should see your pet.
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