INFORMATION FOR PET OWNERS

Transferring your pet

As the veterinary profession continues to grow and develop, there are an ever-increasing number of emergency clinics and referral centres. This means that pets are now being moved around for veterinary treatment more than at any time in the past.

Where will KAPPY transport my pet to/from?

The KAPPY ambulance is available to transport your pet:

• From your home to your vet or an emergency clinic
  
• From your vet to the emergency clinic that your vet uses (if they do use a separate emergency clinic)
  
• From your vet or emergency clinic to a referral centre

How will using KAPPY to transport my pet benefit him/her?

Human paramedic ambulances are used to transport sick or injured people all the time and we would expect no less. Why shouldn’t our pets receive similar care?

The KAPPY ambulance is designed to allow sick or injured animals to receive the best care possible while being moved:

• If your pet is on a drip, this can be continued using an infusion pump
  
• If your pet is having trouble breathing, oxygen can be administered throughout the journey
  
• If your pet is in pain, pain relief can be given as necessary
  
• If your pet is cold, electric heat pads and blankets can be used to warm him/her up
  
• If your dog cannot walk, he/she can be moved into and out of the ambulance on a stretcher that fits inside the walk-in kennel
  
• If your cat is injured or stressed, he/she can be carried into and out of the ambulance in the large purpose built portable oxygen cage and does not have to be bundled into and taken out of a cat carrier
  

These are just some of the benefits that the KAPPY ambulance can provide to pets at their time of need.

How will using KAPPY to transport my pet benefit me?

Using the KAPPY ambulance may benefit you in a number of ways:

• Most pets are part of the family and when they are sick or injured, this can be a very stressful and distressing time. Using the ambulance will provide some comfort knowing that your loved one is receiving the best care available while being moved.
• If you do not have your own transport or any friends or relatives that can help move your pet, KAPPY can move him/her for you.
  
• Even if you do have transport, it may simply be more convenient to let us move your pet.*

(*Please note though that the KAPPY ambulance is primarily intended to transport patients in need of medical care and attention and will give these cases priority over routine transport.)

Can I travel with my pet?

Yes but we must insist that no more than two people accompany an animal during transportation. There is one secure seat in the rear of the ambulance and further seating available in the front cabin.

Should I travel with my pet?

This depends on a number of factors including the particular animal in question and their condition.

• There are some cases where an owner’s presence helps to calm the animal and others where it is more distressing.
  
• Although we may strongly encourage or discourage you to travel with your pet depending on the circumstances, it is ultimately your choice.
  
• In some cases, it may be that travelling with your pet is simply more practical.

How much does it cost to use the KAPPY ambulance to transport my pet? This will vary from case to case and depends on: The distance, duration and nature of the journey The condition of your pet The time of day Whether any drugs and consumables are used Whether any procedures or interventions are carried out

We will provide you with as accurate an estimate as possible before any service is provided.

When and how do I pay?

Except for in certain extenuating circumstances, we will expect payment for any services provided at the end of the journey.

You can pay by credit or debit card or by cheque (preferably not by cash) and an invoice will be provided.

If your pet is being transported in your absence, your credit card details will be taken before the journey as guarantee of payment. An invoice will be sent to you if requested.

Will my pet insurance cover this transportation?

In the majority of cases, at least some of the costs will be covered.

• Most insurance companies will pay for your pet to be transported between veterinary practices if this is necessary on medical grounds.
  
• Some insurance companies will pay for your pet to be transported from your home to a veterinary practice if this is necessary on medical grounds.
  
• Almost all insurance companies will pay for any medical treatment that your pet receives wherever this treatment is provided.

As always though the best advice is that you should check with your insurance company as it will vary. It is obviously a good idea to do this as soon as possible rather than when you actually find yourself in need of KAPPY’s services.

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