The Main Differences Between Veterinary Clinics and Hospitals
A vet clinic and an animal hospital are where pet owners bring their pets for healthcare. Both consist of a different variety of facilities, specializations, and equipment. People usually are more accustomed to veterinary clinics where they typically bring their sick pets. On the other hand, an animal hospital is where people get an injured or seriously ill pet.
Treatment of sick animals can be expensive, and knowing the distinction between the two facilities is crucial before booking a consultation. While they may seem pretty similar, treatment costs differ depending on the case and what kind of treatment is required.
What is a veterinary clinic?
The most significant distinction between a hospital and a clinic is the range of care that the veterinary staff will be able to provide to your pets. Most clinics are private institutions that focus on outpatient and preventative care. They have limited surgical options, diagnostic tools, and inpatient facilities. Additionally, they don’t offer as many specialist services.
What is an animal hospital?
Although hospitals are typically public institutions, some are private. Hospitals provide both outpatient and inpatient services. Other services include preventative care, intensive therapy, surgical procedures, and emergency treatment.
It’s easy to think that the size of the building is the main distinction, but hospitals need a large area to house sick pets who need more prolonged treatment. They likewise have more equipment than regular clinics. However, don’t think that a clinic is not worth your visit; it depends on your furry friend’s specific need, but both can provide high-quality veterinary care.
Typical Services in a Hospital
One of the troubles in a clinic is that when a vet requires examinations like veterinary radiography and blood work, you must bring your pet to a diagnostic laboratory. Whereas in a full-service hospital, you don’t need to go to other facilities because they already have an in-house vet laboratory. You can also expect the following services: dental work, overnight stays, critical care unit, drug store, etc.
Surgical Procedures in a Hospital
Some veterinary surgery procedures can be executed in a clinic, like a dog spaying and neutering. However, those surgeries like orthopedic, cancer removal, abdominal exploration, and other major ones are best performed in an extensive animal hospital.
A Rundown on Animal Hospital and a Veterinary Clinic
- Clinics offer lower prices for routine care, whereas animal hospitals are more pricey because they provide specialized medical care.
- Animal hospitals have more staff and a comprehensive range of services than clinics. So it will be more cost-efficient if you have multiple pets and you’re able to bring them simultaneously to a one-stop facility.
- Clinics usually have modest operating rooms, while hospitals have surgery suites for specialized surgical procedures. Hospitals also provide accommodations when your pet needs time to recuperate after surgery.
- Consult with your primary veterinarians regarding their suggestions on the best facility for your pets. Most veterinarians have experience working on both types of facilities and can guide you in taking the ideal step.