How To Find the Best Vet for Your Dog

It is important to pick a veterinarian early on. You don’t want to wait until it is time to go see the vet before you consider your options. The best thing to do is to ask around. Ask your friends and neighbors where they take their pets. References are one of the best ways to find out first-hand information about a variety of pet services (veterinarians, trainers, groomers, etc.). Other people’s experiences can help you make decisions. You may take your dog on his first visit to a highly recommended veterinarian, and decide that the vet is not right for you. It is perfectly fine to follow your gut feeling. The main thing is finding someone who can take care of your pet, while putting him at ease.

Pre-visit the veterinarian. If you have the time, a pre-visit to the veterinarian (without your pet) is a good idea. It gives you a chance to watch things from an outsider’s viewpoint without being involved in what is happening. You can meet the staff and get a feel for the place. Some vets specialize in certain procedures or practices, so it is also a chance for you to find out the vet’s background, experience and expertise. Find out where the vet attended school and how long he or she has been a practicing veterinarian.

Analyze their behavior. We all hate going to a doctor who refuses to answer questions or treats us as insubordinates. The right veterinarian will care as much about your pooch as you do. The veterinarian should be able to communicate effectively with you and your pet. The vet should be willing to answer any questions you may have.

Upon your initial visit, watch the vet’s (and the assistant’s) mannerisms. If other animals feel comfortable with the staff, and in turn the staff seems comfortable with the pets, then this is a sign of a good veterinarian’s office. It’s great to have a nice vet, but it is also important that the person is certified.

You can tell a lot about the work ethic of a person by the cleanliness of their work environment. The vet’s office should be clean. Pet odors are natural, but they should not be overwhelming. Ask for a tour of the office. You will be able to see the exam rooms and kennels.

You should also consider choosing a vet who is near your home. If an accident happens, you should not have to travel across town to get to the vet. It’s also a big plus if the office offers twenty-four hour emergency care or after-hours services. And, if they do, find out if there is a staff person who stays overnight with the pets. Many veterinarian offices double as kennels, so there should be a late-shift caretaker for the boarding animals.

Do a little research. You can use the web to find blogs, articles or even competitors that might have some useful information. If you want to find out if the vet’s office has received any complaints that have gone further than the office, then check with the Veterinary Medical Board. Each state has its own board. The board puts forth standards and certification requirements that each practicing veterinarian must follow. They can provide you with records on your vet, including education, certification, licenses, and formal complaints. Many offices will also be part of larger associations. If this is the case, then check out the organization as a whole and how your local vet fits.