Thats the point I was trying to make, there are lots of folks that do not have quick access to a vet, and I would not want my pet to suffer waiting hours to get to one. I do value my vet and all they have done for me.
I agree, even if you live close to multiple vets it can still be difficult...
Some vets can be real jerks! A few years ago I brought my suddenly dying dog to the emergency vet here (it was after hours for any regular vet), she lasted about 5 minutes after we got there before passing. The only thing they did was place an IV, no meds, no fluids, no X-ray, nothing at all...