Tipping at the vet's office

Is it done? My dog is a bastard to the folks at the vet's office; he has to be muzzled to be examined, and he's getting really good at making it hard to get the muzzle on. I've been bringing home-made baked goods whenever I bring him in; that feels like an appropriate apology/tip, but what do y'all think?

These days my elderly Pokey's having to visit the vet more and more often; he's got arthritis, a barely functioning thyroid, unexplained seizures, and yesterday the vet confirmed that his kidneys are not working well at all. But he's still enjoying his life, and still hassling cats and squirrels...

I never heard of tipping my veterinarian's office, but gifts of flowers, fruit or chocolate are never turned down. :-)
Once we went blueberry picking and gave our veterinarian a bucketful. He loved them.

yeah, I've never heard of tipping, either. I'd imagine gifts, especially consumables, are appreciated!

Tipping is not something I've done or heard of, but all the gifts mentioned sound wonderful. Also, a note of appreciation might be well-received.

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Originally Posted by skhill

Is it done? My dog is a bastard to the folks at the vet's office; he has to be muzzled to be examined, and he's getting really good at making it hard to get the muzzle on. I've been bringing home-made baked goods whenever I bring him in; that feels like an appropriate apology/tip, but what do y'all think?
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Never heard of tipping, but I like your thinking. I've got one like that, too, next time I'm going to bring something in for the vet and vet tech.

I agree with the others. I wouldn't tip. The vet is making enough money on all your visits. ;) I think the baked goods/consumables are probably very welcome and are a great way to show your appreciation.

Our dog was hit by a car and the vet and staff stayed a lot of extra hours for her (that was 6 yesrs ago and she is doing great). We provided a basket of home grown tomatoes with a note of thanks for the extra effort.

P2

I think your gifts of homemade treats is terrific! Great idea!

No, we never tip. We spend enough money at the vet anyways (I'm pretty sure I put her kids through college, or at least helped pay for her BMW:) It's their job to deal with animals in a frightening and uncomfortable situation and many animals aren't angels in that situation. But, if you feel like thanking them for being good people by buying/giving them gifts, I think that's a personal decision and one that is probably appreciated.

Treats, etc. yes; cash no.

If you feel like you must give cash, perhaps a donation to a local animal rescue organization in the clinic and/or vet's name would be nice.

The following is from someone who works in a clinic (albeit part-time).

I don't know of a clinic that would allow its employees to accept tips. The staff at any clinic is trained to work with all types and temperaments of animals and owners. Don't worry if you buddy is a bit nervous, requires a muzzle, etc. They know how to handle the situation and will do everything they can to make it a good visit for both the animal and the owner. If you feel like you need to "tip" them know there is nothing that lights up a staff more than a tray of homemade cookies/brownies, an arrangement of flowers, a thank you note, a sandwich tray, etc.

I own and operate my own small animal practice.

We love it when clients share homemade goodies, homegrown fruits and veggies and even home-raised eggs, whether your pet is "bad" or "good".

Essentially we don't accept tips and you don't need to bribe us into putting up with bad behavior. Attempts to tip for professional services are directed to a fund to allow us to help indigent pets and strays.

Our groomer and boarding kennels staff do accept tips.

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The vet is making enough money on all your visits

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I wish that were true!!!