A survey by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) suggests that pets are not being treated promptly because too many owners turn first to “Dr Google”.
The findings included 95 per cent of vets in the south of England saying that owners try working out their pets’ problems online.
And as a result, the survey found, 80 per cent of pets are brought in later than they should be.
The BVA said: “Early treatment is often vital in preventing more serious health concerns.”
Four in ten vets said that the owners’ online research was unhelpful, with only 6 per cent saying that it was helpful.
The BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey of nearly 700 vets also reveals that skin conditions were the most common reason for pet owners to visit a vet.
Other common problems include gastrointestinal disorders, such as vomiting, diarrhoea and digestive problems, and musculoskeletal problems, including lameness.
The BVA said that most vets who had seen animals that should have been brought in earlier suspected that financial reasons and a lack of understanding were behind the delay.
Attempts to self-diagnose and treat pets – through medication kept at home, bought online or in supermarkets – were also reported as problems.
One vet said: “Dr Google often results in owners misdiagnosing conditions, followed by the client being led to believe that there is a cheap and effective ‘treatment’ obtainable online or from a pet shop. And thus animals suffer far longer than need be.”
Another vet told how a client had checked Google on the phone during his consultation with the vet and how another client had refused an operation on her dog “only to come back with the dog minutes later in a blind panic because the internet had agreed with my advice”.
This vet said: “It is frustrating that some people appear to genuinely believe that a veterinary degree and a quick search on Google are the same thing.”
Andrew Ash, of Grove Lodge Vets, in Preston Drove, Brighton, said: “The problem with the internet is the volume of information.
“Some is very good. However, a lot is of dubious quality and may be inaccurate or misleading.
“I frequently recommend clients use certain sites on the internet to support information given in the consulting room.
“However, it is very difficult to sort through and pick the right advice and information.
“Problems occur when the internet is used to what I would call ‘home diagnose’ or delay the diagnosis.
“Having said that, the internet can provide owners with additional support post-diagnosis
“If in doubt, ask. Veterinary practices are very good at listening to owners’ concerns and advising whether pets need to be seen or not.
“Also bear in mind that practices will sometimes offer discounted services. For example, my own practice will offer free or discounted consultations for flea products and wormers.”
BVA president and small animal vet Robin Hargreaves said: “It worries me to hear that so many people are relying on guesswork or unverified internet sources for health advice for their pets.
“While there is some useful information about pet behaviour and health available online, particularly from the established animal charities, the best source of information for animal health concerns will always be your vet who knows your pet.
“Given the number of animals with skin problems I see in my own practice, I’m not surprised to hear how common they are.
“I’d strongly encourage owners to visit a vet early if their pet is scratching or licking themselves a lot or showing other signs of skin discomfort.
“Issues such as parasites, fungal infections and allergies are often easily treated but are difficult for owners to diagnose accurately at home.
“The outcomes are often good if they’re brought in early but can develop into more unpleasant conditions if left untreated.”
