Medical Care FAQ

How do we handle potential vaccine reactions? 

Diphenhydramine and dexamethasone are available on site for the treatment of mild vaccine reactions. Any moderate to severe reactions should be referred by PSV staff to a local veterinary hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

What happens if a patient needs more extensive care than we can provide onsite? 

If a pet needs care beyond what we can provide during outreach, the veterinarian may recommend a referral. PSV staff coordinate these referrals through our Veterinary Case Management Program, and approved cases may be financially supported. Pet parents receive a follow-up email within 24 hours outlining next steps and are asked to reply to coordinate care. Veterinarians may also direct pet parents to submit an inquiry through the contact form on our website if additional follow-up is needed. Urgent cases should be discussed with a PSV Lead or staff member before the clinic ends. 

How do we address vaccines that require booster doses? 

Some PSV locations are visited on a recurring basis, which allows us to administer booster vaccines when appropriate. In locations we do not visit regularly, we prioritize providing some level of protection rather than no immunity at all, when clinically appropriate. This approach helps reduce disease risk while acknowledging the realities of access and follow-up care.