Choosing a Veterinarian

When searching for a great veterinarian, look for more than just someone with medical expertise.  Look for someone willing to be your pet’s second best friend, a doctor good with animals as well as people, and someone you feel you could establish a lifetime relationship with.  The absolute worst time to seek a vet is when you are in desperate need for one.  So plan ahead and choose wisely. Know beforehand who your veterinarian is going to be so that when an emergency arises you are completely prepared.

When evaluating a veterinarian, evaluate their staff as well.  Veterinarians using work with a team or

professionals that may care for your pet at one point or another so make sure you find an entire team you think will serve your needs.  Weigh the factors that are most important to you but remember, you may have to drive a few extra miles and possibly spend a few extra dollars to get the quality of care you desire for your pet.

Finding the Right Veterinarian

Recommendations are key when selecting a good veterinarian.   Start with recommendations from a friend, family member, neighbor, animal shelter, dog trainer, groomer, or pet sitter.  The Yellow Pages contains a large section of veterinarians and animal hospitals in your area and could also contain pertinent information such as services, hours, and staff.

Look for veterinary clinics and hospitals who are board certified or have an affiliation with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).  This signifies that a veterinary hospital has voluntarily pursued and met AAHA’s standards in quality care, equipment, and facility standards.  Other board certified veterinarians hold certifications in certain types of medicine such as surgery, cardiology, or ophthalmology, which means they studied an additional two to four years in the specialty area and passed a meticulous examination.

Once you’ve narrowed your search, schedule a visit to meet the staff, tour the facility, and learn about the hospital’s philosophy and policies. This is a reasonable request that any veterinarian should be glad to oblige. Write down your questions ahead of time.

What Do I Look For?

• Do service fees fit your budget and are there any discounts for senior citizens or multiple pet households?
  Is all work done in-house such as x-rays, ultrasounds, blood work, EKG, endoscopy, etc.?
  Are emergency services available? If so, what types of emergency services are available?
  Are appointments required?
  Are the doctor’s and staff caring, calm, competent, and courteous, and do they communicate effectively?
  How many veterinarians are in the practice?
  What do the other staff members do? Have they had schooling experience?
  Are dog and cat cages in separate areas or combine in one area?
  Is the facility well-organized, friendly, clean, and comfortable?