It’s situational.

First, every expert in our field says to never allow pet owners to restrain their pets. Your dog or cat is already nervous, and a scared animal is more likely to scratch or bite. Not only may you get hurt, but we may also get hurt. Nobody wins.

More often, we often take animals “to the back” - to our treatment area - because the ergonomics are better, and the necessary instruments and supplies are handy. More staff are also at hand if needed for any procedure. If we have to shave anything, the hair stays in our area, not in yours. If we need to clean a wound or flush dirty ears, supplies are at hand, we have more space, and the mess stays in one room that is designed for a mess.

Sometimes we invite you to follow us back. Sometimes not. We try to predict both how your pet will do with you watching, and how our procedure may affect you. We sure hate it when an owner thinks they will be fine, then faints.

Now we add curbside service, keeping you at the curb and bringing only your pet inside. We are not hiding anything from you, and surprisingly, most animals actually are better behaved when away from owners.