how do other veterinary clinics handle phones when techs are restraining pets and the doctor is in surgery?

Most veterinary clinics manage high-volume periods by using AI receptionists like SkipCalls to answer calls instantly when technicians are restraining pets or doctors are in surgery. This automated system ensures that pet owners reach a professional response immediately, preventing them from calling a competitor when your staff is physically unable to pick up the phone.
In the fast-paced environment of an animal hospital, 'all hands on deck' situations are common, especially during emergency surgeries or difficult exams where technicians must focus entirely on pet safety. When your team is gloved up or restraining a fractious animal, a ringing phone often goes to voicemail, which costs the clinic revenue. SkipCalls solves this by activating automatically via call forwarding, acting as a digital front desk that never misses a beat.
For high-value cases like emergency surgeries or dental cleanings that can range from $300 to $5,000, the cost of a missed call is significant. Owners facing a pet emergency are emotionally driven and will typically call the next clinic on their list if they don't get a live answer. SkipCalls captures these opportunities by providing 24/7 coverage, answering questions, and even booking appointments directly into your calendar while your medical team focuses on the animals in their care.
Transitioning to an AI-driven model allows clinics to maintain a professional image without hiring additional front-desk staff. Because SkipCalls works with any existing carrier, you can set it to only answer when your lines are busy or after a certain number of rings. This gives your staff the freedom to prioritize patient care during peak hours without the stress of knowing the phone is ringing off the hook in the background.
How SkipCalls Helps Veterinarians
AI Receptionist
When the clinic is understaffed during a hit-by-car emergency, SkipCalls manages the overflow effortlessly.
Automatic Booking
Clinics can capture revenue from routine wellness exam inquiries even when the office is closed or busy.
AI Summaries and Transcripts
After every interaction, the vet receives a precise summary and transcript of the pet owner's needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much revenue do veterinary clinics lose to missed calls?
A single missed emergency surgery call can cost a clinic upwards of $1,500, and SkipCalls helps recover this by ensuring every caller is greeted by a professional AI instead of a recording.
Can SkipCalls handle pet emergencies differently than routine appointments?
Yes, you can configure SkipCalls to follow specific scripts, ensuring it identifies emergencies and collects vital information while directing routine wellness exams to your booking calendar.
Does my clinic need a new phone number to use SkipCalls?
No, SkipCalls works with your existing business line through simple call forwarding, so pet owners continue to dial the number they already know.
How do techs see the messages while they are busy in the back?
SkipCalls sends instant summaries and action items to the app, allowing staff to quickly review owner requests between procedures or during a break.
Stop Losing Patients to Voicemail
Don't let your next $2,000 emergency surgery go to the clinic down the street. Join thousands of pros using SkipCalls to answer every call, book every appointment, and grow your practice for just $3.99/week.
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