Choosing the right veterinarian for your dog may be a life and death decision for your pet. It is not something you should decide on a whim or at the last minute. Selecting the right vet for you will save you time, money, and heartache over the duration of your pup’s life. Your dog and your wallet will thank you.
Choosing The Right Vet
- ~ Start with word of mouth recommendations. Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors for their suggestions before checking online. Their vet might offer referral programs that give you and your friend a discount for the recommendation. You can also ask local shelters, rescues, boarding businesses, and grooming salons for who they go to.
- ~ Check out online reviews. It’s usually best to start off with friend recommendations, but online reviews also have their place. Sites like Yelp and Angie’s List are great options. You can also check out Pet Guide and Vet Ratingz for more insight.
- ~ Visit the facility in person.
- How’s the staff? Are they friendly and professional?
- Is the facility busy? (This usually means they’re hard working and good quality).
- Is the facility clean?
- Do the animals and people seem comfortable and safe?
- How far away is the facility? How’s the parking?
~ Get a behind the scenes tour.
- Do they answer all of your questions openly and without rushing you?
- Is their equipment up to date?
- Is the office staff knowledgeable, caring, and calm?
Meeting The Vet For The First Time
A great idea before talking with the vet is to come prepared with questions. Here’s a list of questions to consider.
- How will your dog be treated here as compared to other clinics?
- What’s the response time to calls and medical inquiries?
- Do they participate in continuing education?
- What’s their stance on nutrition and preventative care?
Taking Your Dog To The Vet
Before deciding if this is the right vet for your dog, see if they are willing to have an initial visit with your pet. It’s important to gauge how your pup will be treated and how your dog reacts before making a final decision.
- – Does the vet call your dog by name?
- – Do they try to form a connection with your pet?
- – Do you feel comfortable asking the vet questions and are your questions answered?
Your dog’s life could be in this person’s hands someday. Make sure you feel comfortable before giving a final say.
Other Questions To Consider
Here are some other questions you might want to consider before choosing your vet. Even if the facility may not meet these qualifications, that doesn’t mean you should necessarily discount their practice. These are simply good marks in their favor.
- – Are they accredited with the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association)
- – What are their fees and methods of payment they expect?
- – What are their after hours? If there’s an emergency can you visit in the middle of the night?
- – What kind of emergency services are available on site?
- – How do they monitor their overnight patients?
- – Do they support any local animal welfare organizations?
In Conclusion
Choosing a vet for your dog is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. If nothing else, consider you and your pup’s needs before making a final decision. Also, make sure your dog gets annual check ups to ensure their good health and longevity.
Did we miss anything? What things do you look for in a quality vet?