If you’re a new pet owner, choosing the right veterinarian for your furry friend can be overwhelming. It’s not always enough to find a veterinarian who’s in your area. Here are some tips on how to choose a vet that will ensure that your pet will be treated with the utmost care.
- Find a veterinarian through the American Animal Hospital Association, which evaluates veterinary practices on their facilities, staff, and quality of care, or through trustworthy, pet-owning friends. A vet’s clients will have more experience dealing with their office than AAHA evaluators, and their experience is often invaluable when you’re trying to find a veterinarian.
- Make an appointment to meet your potential vet and see the facilities before bringing your pet to visit. Finding a vet you can communicate easily with is key. You want your vet to be able to explain your animal’s health to you clearly and effectively. During your visit, heck that the facilities are clean and organized and observe clients and their pets to see if they seem pleased with the services. Also, pay attention to staff members to make sure they’re patient and get along well with any visiting pets.
- Ask your veterinarian questions. Many vets will appreciate your interest in your animal’s well-being. Ask how many vets are on the staff. It’s important that someone will be around to take care of your animal whenever they need care, not just when the only vet gets back from vacation. Also be sure to ask whether or not the practice is AAHA-accredited and if the veterinarians are licensed. If the answer to either question is no, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Check for additional services. Some veterinary hospitals also offer boarding services for when you’re out of town or temporarily unable to care for your pet. This can be a crucial service if you suffer from health problems or travel frequently. Some pet boarding facilities will feed their guests nutritious meals, take them on walks, and entertain them with fun activities.
Choosing the right vet can make a world of difference for your pet, so make sure to choose with them in mind. Do your research and find a vet who will keep your animal as healthy and happy as possible! Good references here.
