Whether you are choosing a new veterinarian for the first time or making a switch to a new veterinarian, it can be stressful finding a professional to help manage your pet’s care. A veterinarian will essentially be responsible for your furry family member’s overall health and well-being, so the decision should not be taken lightly. Be sure to find a veterinarian office that is easy to work with and offers the services that will make caring for your pet easy and seamless.
The Basics
When selecting your veterinarian, you want to make sure you have the basics covered. It should be easy to get to your veterinarian, and you should know and trust that he or she will give your pet the highest level of care.
Location
Find a veterinarian that is easy to get to from your house. Not only will a close location make it more convenient for you to get to your pet’s regular wellness exams, but a close place is ideal for emergencies. If you need to have your pet examined quickly, you want peace of mind knowing you have just a short distance to travel to see an expert.
Experience
Finding a vet that you know you can trust has a great deal to do with the practice’s experience and reputation. Find a practice that has worked with your animal type and knows about the different dog and cat breeds. Certain breeds of cats and dogs are predisposed to diseases and conditions. Knowing that your veterinarian understands this concern can help give you the confidence to know your pet is in the best possible hands for ongoing care. Be sure to read reviews online and talk to people who would recommend the veterinarian. Sometimes a practice’s reputation is the best way to determine if the vet’s office and the veterinarian will work for you.
Personality
Lastly, be sure that you can form a connection with your vet. You should be able to communicate thoughts, ideas, and concerns with one another. You should feel comfortable asking questions and feel confident that each question has been answered thoroughly and adequately. Building a strong connection with your veterinarian will give you peace of mind knowing you have an experienced professional managing your pet’s care.
Available Services
Once you find a location and a vet that you feel comfortable with, be sure they offer the level of care required for your pet. If possible, additional in-house services can help make your pet’s care more manageable.
Surgical Team
We never want to think about our pets having to undergo surgery, but you want to go to a trusted and familiar practice if a surgical procedure is necessary. Make sure that your veterinarian can perform surgeries at their practice. If possible, ask about their standard surgical practices and inquire about specialty surgeries. Sometimes, a vet’s office cannot perform a difficult or specialized surgery but regularly works with a larger animal hospital to refer patients.
In-house Pharmacy and Testing
Having an in-house laboratory and pharmacy at your veterinarian’s office can make getting medications and test results fast and easy. If your pet is waiting on test results or needs medication quickly, you can rest assured knowing that your pet will get the help he or she needs fast. Plus, an in-house pharmacy will be able to answer any questions you may have about medication and help to reformulate medications into various forms for picky eaters.
Specialty Care
If your pet requires special care or has a unique condition or disease, you want to make sure that you find an office that can provide comprehensive care. Ask about the practice and their experience working with your pet’s particular condition. Ask about any alternative treatment options they may offer, such as acupuncture for pain management or physical therapy to help rehab and heal painful joints.
Introduction and Evaluation
Finding the proper practice for you and your pet takes work and dedication, but when you know you have found the right veterinarian to trust with your pet’s care, it can make a world of difference. Choosing a veterinarian is a big decision, and it is perfectly alright to ask for an introductory appointment and evaluation. Pay particular attention to the way the vet interacts with both your pet and you. Be sure to ask your vet questions and express any concerns you may have. Interviewing your veterinarian before selecting them is a great way to feel confident in your long-term decision.
