Just like cats and dogs large animals need veterinary care too. Large animals, such as horses or livestock, present an interesting challenge in the veterinary office. Often, treating a horse is very similar to treating a large animal that one might find in a zoo. Because of this there are very specific veterinary facility doors and associated veterinary facility door hardware designed with large animals in mind. If you have a veterinary practice that requires the use of specialized veterinary facility door hardware there are a few things to consider before selecting your doors and hardware. Below, we have outlined the main considerations.
Strength
Large animals have a great deal of power and force. If they are at the veterinary office for a procedure or surgery chances are high that the animal will be scared and unpredictable. Having a door closure system that is able to withstand brute force is essential. Further, the locking mechanism must be secure to provide a safe holding location while the animal is undergoing medical evaluation and procedure. Veterinary facility door hardware is designed with these considerations and is made of stronger steel and with tighter tolerances. This way, veterinarians, staff, and animals are all protected and safe.
Ease of Use
Handling and treating the animal is of the utmost importance so being able to quickly and easily get in and out of the holding area is essential. Typically, facility doors come in two options. One option is a swing door while the other is a sliding door. Because swing doors built large and strong enough to withstand brute force are typically very heavy to maneuver specialized veterinary facility door hardware is needed. This hardware is designed to be balanced just right to allow the door to open and close easily. Likewise for sliding doors, the hardware is specifically engineered to allow for a smooth opening and closing with minimal effort.
Design
Choosing the type of door required for your space will rely heavily on what type of room your facility has. Swing doors can be practical but require a greater swing radius in the room the are opening toward. You must make sure you have enough room to accommodate the whole width of the door swinging into the space. If your facility is tight on space a sliding door might work better. Sliding doors look like sliding barn doors and are easily installed with a track system. If you have the need for several sliding doors, flat track kits are available to easily install multiple doors throughout the facility. To achieve a particular style, or look, in the veterinary facility all of the available tracks and doors come in a wide range of colors and finishes.