Can I Take My Dog to the Vet and Maintain Social Distancing?

Whether your dog needs routine care like booster shots, flea and worming treatments, or requires urgent veterinary attention, UK vets remain committed to delivering essential animal healthcare safely. The ongoing COVID-19 situation has prompted veterinary clinics to adopt new protocols balancing pet welfare with social distancing and hygiene measures.

This article provides a clear overview of what social distancing means when visiting the vet, how you can maintain it, and what safety steps veterinary practices currently follow in the UK.

Understanding Social Distancing at the Vet

Social distancing aims to reduce close contact between individuals to lower the risk of transmitting COVID-19. At vet clinics, this includes limiting the number of people inside, using separate waiting arrangements, and promoting good hygiene.

During visits, this means maintaining physical distance where possible, avoiding unnecessary contact with others, practising hand hygiene, and wearing face coverings if requested by your vet. These measures protect both the animals, their owners, and clinic staff.

Can You Maintain Social Distancing When Taking Your Dog to the Vet?

While certain close contact is unavoidable during your dog's examination, many vets now restrict waiting room access. You may be asked to wait outside or in your vehicle until called in. Contact your vet beforehand to understand their current procedures.

Usually, only one person accompanies the pet to minimise crowding. Some clinics perform consultations outdoors or via telephone or video call for non-urgent matters. This reduces the need for physical visits.

Practical Tips to Maintain Social Distancing and Safety During a Vet Visit

1. Pre-Book and Call Ahead: Always contact your veterinary practice before your visit to schedule an appointment and learn about their specific social distancing policies.
2. Arrive Prepared: Have your dog on a lead or in a crate ready for immediate handover to staff to minimise waiting time and interaction.
3. Wait Outside: Be prepared to remain outside or in your vehicle until your pet can be seen. Bring suitable clothing for weather conditions.
4. Limit Contact: Maintain distance from other people and avoid touching communal surfaces or your face during the visit.
5. Follow Hygiene Protocols: Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands before and after handling your dog or any equipment; your vet may provide sanitiser on site.
6. If Symptomatic, Arrange Alternative Care: If you or anyone in your household shows COVID-19 symptoms or has recently been exposed, do not go to the vet yourself. Ask a healthy friend or family member to take your dog instead.

Will a Vet Visit Increase Your Risk of Catching Coronavirus?

Any outing outside your home carries a low but present risk of exposure to coronavirus. However, veterinary clinics operate under strict infection prevention protocols including enhanced cleaning, limited client numbers, and staff PPE use.

Risk is further reduced by eliminating waiting room use and conducting consultations remotely whenever possible. When following your vet’s guidance and public health advice, the chance of contracting COVID-19 during a vet visit is lower than many everyday activities like shopping.

What to Do If You're Unwell But Your Dog Needs Veterinary Care

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or are isolating, do not visit the veterinary practice yourself. Inform your vet and arrange for an alternative person to bring your dog or discuss remote consultation options.

Good communication with your veterinary team ensures your pet's needs are met safely without increasing health risks to yourself or others.

Summary and Next Steps

Taking your dog to the vet while maintaining social distancing in the UK is achievable with awareness and cooperation. Current practices prioritise minimizing contact between people, pre-booking appointments, and using remote consultations when appropriate.

Before your next veterinary visit, call your local vet to understand their latest policies. Prepare your dog for a quick handover and follow all hygiene and distancing advice to keep yourself, your pet, and veterinary staff safe.

Responsible pet ownership means timely veterinary care even during public health challenges, coupled with respect for social distancing and hygiene measures designed to protect our communities.