Portland veterinary clinics working to keep up with appointments

PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) - Many people have adopted a new best friend during the pandemic, but now veterinarian appointments have been difficult to get.

Clinics average at least two weeks behind schedule. People have waited up to 18 hours to make sure their pet is okay. Daniel Lioy-Ryan, manager of Cats in the City, waited six hours for an appointment for Titus, a cat who had a nail infection.

“That is what we end up doing normally because we can’t get into regular vet clinics. That can become quite daunting, because we’re not the only ones going to those clinics. Lots of folks are going to those clinics that can’t get into their vets. So, the wait times tend to be hours. It’s not a situation where you can leave, you actually have to remain on site.” says Daniel.

There are a few factors that have made appointments problematic. One of them being short staffed because employees are getting sick.

“It’s hard to compete with wages. People are trying to find what’s best for their lifestyle now. The hours are long and it’s a little brutal in the industry. People are tired and burning out. There’s a slowdown in certified veterinarian technicians coming out of school right now,” says Jennifer Robinson of Pet Samaritan Clinic.

Veterinarians love your pets as much as you do. All they ask for is your patience.

“We are all here from 6:30 am. We were here last night until 9 pm. We are not going home and having lunch breaks. We’re here in the trenches, so be nice.”

Clinics suggest that if you have to cancel an appointment, call well ahead in advance and if you can’t get an appointment, ask to get on the waitlist.

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