Experience The Desert Paws Mobile Veterinary Care Difference
Creating a Calm Experience
One of the main goals of mobile pet care is to ensure we are providing a stress-free environment for not only pets, but also their people. If it’s our first time coming to your home, there are a few simple things you can do to help prepare for your visit.
We encourage our pet parents to designate a safe area that is well-lit and has enough space for us to kneel or sit down next to your pet during the exam or service. Most pets are more relaxed and comfortable when you get down on their level, so our team is more than happy to do so; therefore, no seating is required. Our team comes over prepared, and although we appreciate the offer for drinks or snacks, we have everything we need, and thank you anyway!
Before and During the Appointment
When you schedule your appointment, we will provide a time range for our arrival. Although we try our hardest to ensure we arrive during that time, if there are any changes, we will always call and inform you.
It’s normal for dogs to bark or get excited when we arrive—they typically settle down quickly, and we’re very used to it. Please have a leash nearby just in case we need it.
Cats, on the other hand, tend to be curious but are often very cautious of new people. We encourage you to shut the doors to any other rooms in the house so they aren’t spooked and tempted to go find a safe spot to hide. For especially shy cats, placing them in a small room (like a bathroom) about 10–15 minutes before our visit helps them stay calm and makes handling easier.
We use gentle handling techniques, soft towels, and even hypoallergenic treats to make each pet’s experience positive. If your pet has food sensitivities or you prefer we avoid treats, just let us know ahead of time and that is not a problem.
Setting Up and Getting Started
Once we arrive, we’ll bring in our supplies and equipment from the van—organized for quick and efficient use. We carry two types of pet scales to ensure accurate weight measurements, and we’ll select the one best suited for your companion.
We’ll start by reviewing your pet’s medical history, diet, medications, and any preventatives currently being used. All exam notes are entered in real-time into our cloud-based veterinary software, keeping your pet’s records secure and accessible.
The Examination Process
You’re welcome to stay with your pet throughout the entire exam and any tests or treatments. One of the benefits of in-home care is that your pet never needs to be taken “to the back”—everything happens right where they’re most comfortable.
We’ll take your pet’s vital signs, perform a thorough physical exam, and discuss any recommended next steps such as vaccinations, lab tests, or preventive treatments. Our mobile unit is stocked with a pharmacy of commonly used medications, so we can often begin treatment immediately. For prescriptions we don’t carry, we can coordinate with your preferred local pharmacy or our convenient online pharmacy.
Diagnostics and Advanced Care
You’re welcome to stay with your pet throughout the entire exam and any tests or treatments. One of the benefits of in-home care is that your pet never needs to be taken “to the back”—everything happens right where they’re most comfortable.
We’ll take your pet’s vital signs, perform a thorough physical exam, and discuss any recommended next steps such as vaccinations, lab tests, or preventive treatments. Our mobile unit is stocked with a pharmacy of commonly used medications, so we can often begin treatment immediately. For prescriptions we don’t carry, we can coordinate with your preferred local pharmacy or our convenient online pharmacy.
Availability and End-of-Life Care
Desert Paws is a full-service mobile veterinary practice, offering a wide range of services including End-of-Life care. We can often accommodate same-day or same-week appointments and proudly partner with Family Pet Services for cremation and memorial arrangements.
At this time, we are welcoming new clients specifically for End-of-Life services.
After Your Visit
Following your appointment, you’ll receive a detailed invoice via email. We accept cash, as well as all major debit and credit cards. Please ensure we have your correct email address on file, as we also send service reminders and medical records electronically for your convenience.
We’re not a 24-hour practice and are closed on weekends and major holidays. Dr. Martin founded Desert Paws with the goal of providing exceptional, personalized care—while also allowing our team the balance and rest needed to serve you best.
If you have an after-hours emergency, please contact one of the emergency veterinary clinics listed on our website or voicemail.
For general cost inquiries or to request a quote, feel free to call or email us. Our pricing is comparable to other Tucson-area clinics, with an additional travel fee based on distance.
Get In Touch With Us
Have questions about our mobile veterinary services or need more information? We’re happy to help! Fill out the form below, and a member of our team will get back to you soon.
