How do I check a vet clinic’s mobile or house-call vet service?

Begin with the pattern of visits. Ask for a typical week of mobile calls, showing the area covered, the length of each visit and the type of work. Look at whether the same clients are served again and again, or whether the service depends on new calls. Ask how the calls are booked and who handles emergencies.

Next, look at the vehicle and what it carries. Check its age and condition, how it is stocked and who is responsible for keeping it clean and ready. Ask who owns it, whether any of the equipment is leased and what happens to it if the veterinarian leaves. Ask how animals are examined and treated in the field and what is brought back to the clinic.

Then compare the income with the cost of time. Travel eats into the day, so ask your accountant to compare the earnings with the hours and expenses involved. Ask whether the service relies on one veterinarian and whether others are comfortable doing house calls. Your lawyer can tell you how vehicle and equipment ownership should be handled. Ask how pets or owners are prepared before a house call, and whether any clients stopped using the service because of the travel charge or the wait for a visit.

Key takeaways

• Review a typical week of calls, including travel and visit length.
• Check the vehicle’s condition, stocking and ownership.
• Ask whether the service depends on one veterinarian.
• Ask why some clients stopped using the mobile service.