The Village Vet

1. What is a veterinary house call visit?

A house call visit brings a veterinarian right to the comfort of your own home.  Your pets will receive the same high quality services that they would at a traditional clinic, but with less stress.  After getting a history, each pet receives a full physical examination, since they can't always tell us where it hurts.  From there, we can determine which vaccinations your pet needs, which tests might be necessary and if any medications should be dispensed.

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2. How can I prepare for your visit?

All new clients are required to review the practice policies found here and fill out the online registration form.  Once the registration form is submitted, you can forward a copy of your pet's medical records to TheVillageVetMA@gmail.com.​  It is also helpful to have all of your pet's medications and supplements available for review (prescription and over-the-counter)

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For our shy feline friends, it can be helpful to put them in a small room (such as a bathroom) before the visit.  If your dog is nervous or aggressive, it is helpful to train them to be comfortable wearing a muzzle.  There are some great resources for training your dog to wear a muzzle comfortably (check out "The Muzzle Up! Project") and it can actually reduce stress during a visit.  Please note that any pets who are unavailable at the time of the visit or who are unable to safely be examined will be assessed a behavior consultation fee and the examination appointment will be rescheduled to a later date.

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3. Do you offer any discounts?

To thank them for their service, at the end of their watch, handlers of retired or active duty police dogs or military working dogs can request an in-home euthanasia at no cost.  In addition, these dogs are also eligible for free cremation services.  Proof of current or prior service is required.  Please contact me for more information and to arrange this service - from one veteran to another, it's an honor to provide this service.

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4. My dog or cat is aggressive and has never been able to be examined without sedation.  Can you still see them?

The answer to this is... maybe.  Owners must be able to hand and have control of their pet and apply a muzzle to aggressive dogs (if needed).  If those are not possible then I will refer your pet to a full service hospital for sedation.  Sometimes I arrive and find that the pet does better at home, with less stressful handling techniques, and I can proceed with a full examination and services.  If that is not possible, we'll discuss the behaviors to determine the needs for your pet, usually dispensing oral sedation to give before the next visit, but sometimes a referral for full sedation may be required.  My overall goal is to provide a safe environment for myself, your family and your pets, and I hope that with time and positive experiences your pet can become more comfortable with each visit.

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5. Does my pet need an examination? Can't you just give him/her a shot?

Our pets can't tell us when something hurts, so an examination helps us to detect changes early and keep pets healthy.  An examination is required annually for all pets and recommended twice a year for senior pets or those on long-term medications.  It is also state law that a pet must have an examination in order for a veterinarian to provide any services other than a rabies vaccination.  If you are in search of just a rabies vaccine, you can contact your local animal control officer for information regarding local rabies clinics.

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6. Do you offer payment plans?

We are unable to offer payment plans, and all account balances are due in full at the time services are provided.

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7. It's time to say goodbye to my pet.  Can you help?

While deciding when to say goodbye is never easy, I strive to make it as gentle as possible.  To learn more about the process, please click here.