10 Tips for Finding a Great Veterinarian
Finding the right veterinarian for your family is not an easy task. Having recently gone through the process myself, I wanted to share with you a few tips that helped us find a great veterinarian for Ivy and Crumpet.
1. Don’t Delay
The worst time to look for a veterinarian is when you have an emergency. Make it a priority to find a good vet before a problem arises.
2. Identify Your Companion’s Needs
Make a list of priorities for you and your pet. Think about your animal’s age, species, breed, and any health concerns. Those who live with cats will need to know if the veterinarian’s practice is feline friendly. If your animal is older, you may need a vet who specializes in geriatrics. Having a list will help you ask the right questions as you interview veterinarians.
3. Ask Around
Word of mouth is a great way to find a vet. Ask friends for recommendations. If you are new to the area, check out sites that offer reviews. Local pet sitters or obedience trainers may also be good resources.
4. Qualifications and Quality of Care
It is important to verify the credentials of your prospective veterinarian and the quality of care offered by the facility. Make sure your vet’s practice is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association.
5. Appointment Length
If you are like me, you have a list of questions to go over during an appointment, and the last thing you want is to feel rushed. Make sure your veterinarian has enough time for you and is able to respond in a timely fashion if you have follow-up questions.
6. Hours and Proximity
Do the clinic hours work with your schedule? Is it a reasonable drive from your home? Health issues can arise day or night, so extended hours and emergency services are important factors to consider when choosing a vet.
7. Size of Practice/Facilities
Some people prefer a small practice, while others favor a larger facility. Think about what factors are important to you and choose a vet that fits the bill.
8. Schedule a Tour
Make an appointment to tour your prospective veterinarian’s facility without your animal. This will give you an opportunity to get a feel for the clinic, the vet, and the care team. Create a list of questions beforehand so you don’t forget anything. Below are a few things to consider during your tour:
Do you have a good rapport with the veterinarian?
Is the facility clean and tidy?
Are separate waiting areas available for dogs and cats?
Is the staff caring and competent? Do they respond to inquiries in a timely fashion?
9. Ask Questions
Good communication is essential. You should feel comfortable asking questions and the vet should listen to your concerns and offer clear explanations. Consider asking the following questions when you meet with a veterinarian:
Which emergency services are available at the clinic?
Where will you be referred if an emergency appointment is not available?
Are diagnostic tests like X-rays, bloodwork, etc. done in-house? If not, where will you be referred?
Are payment plans available for expensive procedures?
Do they accept your insurance?
10. Develop a Partnership
Once you have found the right veterinarian, make sure to respect any clinic policies and show up on time for appointments. You and your veterinarian are partners in your companion’s care, so it is important to show mutual respect and work as a team.
With so many factors to consider, the prospect of finding the right veterinarian may feel overwhelming, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Having a great vet in your corner will provide peace of mind for your family and better health for your animal companions.
