Pandemic blamed for booking backlog at Minnesota animal hospitals

Pet owners are finding it a challenge to get their dog or cat into the vet clinic.

The waiting lists for some animal hospitals around the metro are scheduled out for nearly a month.

The Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association says the booking backlog is being caused by people adopting new pets during the pandemic and curbside service at animal hospitals.

"t’s been a unique challenge," Dr. Rob Memmen, with the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association said. "Having to do the curbside service to protect staff and protect clients that does slow down our efficiency, so each individual appointment may take a little bit longer and that adds up throughout the day."

Vets hope by the end of the summer appointments at animal hospitals will slowly return to normal.