Keeping animals of all sizes healthy and happy is what veterinarians have dedicated their lives to doing. This means monitoring their health in every way so that they can thrive for years to come. Of course, to make sure any animal is at a healthy weight or that they are prescribed the right dosage of medication, knowing their exact weight is vital.
Every veterinarian needs a scale that can easily handle the weight of the animals they see without putting too much strain or stress on the animal. But with so many options on the market, it is hard to tell which one you should purchase. This veterinary scale buyer’s guide is designed to help you determine the right choice for your practice.
The Scale’s Weight Capacity
Animals come in all sizes. Some veterinarians may work with a wide range of animals while others may only work with a select group. That means when it comes to purchasing a scale, you must have an idea of the weight capacity needed. For instance, if your practice primarily caters to small domestic animals – like dogs and cats – you may only need a scale that goes up to 300lbs or so. If you work within the equestrian community, however, you will need a scale that can weigh horses that are well over 1,000lbs. Cattle and other farm animals can weigh even more. At the same time, veterinarians that deal with small pets, such as gerbils, will need a scale that can accurately calculate lightweight.
The point of all this is to help you understand that scales are not one-size-fits-all when it comes to weighing animals. To make sure you get the one you need, decide the lowest and highest weights of the animals that you typically treat — and then add some cushion to either end. You want a scale that will go over your highest-weight animal just in case. Remember, a scale is an investment so you want to make sure it will be there for you when you need it.
The Size of the Platform
Just like you need a scale to be able to handle the weight of the specific types of animals you see at your veterinary practice, you also need to make sure that the size of the platform will be suitable for your patients, too. After all, you can’t accurately weigh a horse on a 2’ x 2’ platform. Instead, you would look at a larger scale, such as a heavy-duty livestock floor scale. These will be size-appropriate to adequately handle larger animals.
Whereas, if you have a typical veterinary practice that sees cats and dogs, then a 500lb capacity scale with a platform of 36” x 22” may be more suitable.
Weighing animals is a big part of treating them so it is important to make sure the scale you choose will allow you to easily gather the animal’s weight – without struggle.
The Price is Right
Finally, when making any business investment, the price must always be taken into consideration. You need a scale that gives you precise weight, but it doesn’t need to break your budget. Some scales offer a lot of extra frills that you probably don’t need. However, some may have different weighing modes and options that you think may benefit your practice.
Look at your options carefully and choose the scale that will best meet the needs of your practice – and your patients. More expensive and more features are not always better. Look for durable scales that give you precise weight and will be easy to care for and maintain.
Veterinary Scales at Central Carolina Scale
Whether you are a veterinarian that treats dogs, cats, horses, alpacas, goats, or any other animal – you will find the high-quality, durable scale you are looking for at Central Carolina Scale.
Speak to the experts at (919) 776-7737 to discover the perfect scale for your veterinary practice. Or, if you have an idea of what you are looking for, request a quote online.