It's getting easier to get your pet to the vet in Sooke, because now they'll be coming to you.
Beginning July 19, pet owners will have a new option for veterinary care, as the Sooke Veterinary Hospital (SVH) expands its mobile service.
"This comes as a relief for those otherwise constrained by weekday commitments in a town without any open vet clinics on the weekend," said Dr. Deborah Lambert, owner and veterinarian at SVH, in a news release.
The new mobile service will be fully equipped and will provide service on an appointment basis, meaning bookings will need to be made in advance. The house-call veterinary services will be available to pets and their people within a 15-minute radius of the Sooke core.
It's a service the hospital hopes will be able to offer some relief to residents who have no options to access care on the weekends without travelling outside the community, often leading to many forgoing veterinary care entirely.
“We hated having to close Saturdays,” said Lambert.
“We saw a real need in the community and decided to bring our already-established mobile option into the gap, which requires lower staffing. It also fills the need for those who cannot get to us due to transportation issues.”
The mobile unit will provide routine wellness checks, vaccinations, diagnostics, and basic treatment, as well as end-of-life care such as euthanasia. However, the clinic will not be equipped for emergencies or surgeries in the field.
“This is about making quality care easier, especially for those with limited transportation or busy weekday schedules,” said Lambert.
“We’re excited to serve Sooke in a new way.”
The Sooke Veterinary Hospital has served the region for 49 years, often placing a focus on compassionate care and community outreach. Those wanting to book a mobile service appointment can do so by calling 250-642-4413.
