Looking for a veterinarian? Read this first!

If you’ve recently relocated to a new area or have just taken home your family’s first pet, finding the best veterinarian for your dog or cat is probably at the front of your mind. If you’re asking yourself how you’ll make such an important decision, this post is for you!

Here are some important tips for choosing your pet’s second-best friend.

Ask you friends or neighbors!
According to Dogster, “If you are choosing a vet for the first time, word of mouth is probably the best way to get started.” Petfinder agrees: “Find out who [friends and neighbors] use and why. It is a good idea to get several different opinions since no one person will be liked by everyone. You want to get a sampling of opinions.”

Visit the clinic
Petfinder recommends visiting the clinic before making your first appointment. The staff should be happy to answer your questions, and it’s also legitimate to request a tour. The Humane Society Of The United States suggests the following as you evaluate the clinic:

• Is the facility clean, comfortable and well-organized?
• Are appointments required?
• How many veterinarians are in the practice?
• Are there technicians or other professional staff members?
• Are dog and cat cages in separate areas?
• Are X-rays, ultrasound, bloodwork, EKG, endoscopy and other diagnostics done in-house or referred to a specialist?
• Which emergency services are available?
• Is location and parking convenient?
• Do fees fit your budget, and are discounts for senior citizens or multi-pet households available?

Evaluate the staff
Although it’s always good to trust your instincts when evaluating the clinic’s staff, the American Veterinary Medical Association lists the following criteria to keep in mind:

• How are telephone calls handled?
• Can you request an appointment with a specific veterinarian?
• Does the staff dress and act professionally?
• Do you feel comfortable talking with the doctor? The technician?
• How do the staff and doctors interact with your pet?

Evaluate the Veterinarian
Petfinder suggests the following questions to ask yourself when evaluating the vet:

• Does he/she take time to listen to your concerns?
• Are you given enough time to explain and ask questions?
• How is his/her rapport with your pet? Does he/she talk to your animal and try to establish a relationship before starting the exam?
• Is your pet called by name?
• Does the doctor take time to do an exam and address your concerns? Do you feel comfortable asking questions? Are you questions answered?
• If your pet is ill or if some type of in-hospital procedure is required is everything well explained?

Being a good client
Finally, according to the Humane Society, it’s important to remember to be a good client for your veterinarian. After all, having good client manners encourages a happy relationship with your vet.

• See your vet regularly for preventive visits, not just when your pet becomes ill.
• Schedule appointments and be on time. Lateness wreaks havoc with the office’s timing.
• For your pet’s safety as well as that of other clients and pets, bring your cat to the veterinary office in a carrier.
• Don’t disturb your veterinarian during non-working hours for matters that can wait, and don’t expect your veterinarian to diagnose a pet’s problem over the phone.
• Even if you have an emergency, call ahead to ensure that the veterinarian’s available. She will have to work your pet into the regular schedule, so be prepared to wait. If your pet can’t be seen that day, you will be referred to an emergency vet hospital.

Do you have any other suggestions that we didn’t list here? As always, leave us a reply!