Pet Services

How to Choose the Best Vet for Your Pet

Not all vets are created equal; some are overbooked and small and even dirty, which is not a place where you would want to get your pet checked.  If you are budget-conscious, it doesn't mean that you can't find a good and friendly veterinary that can take care of your pet well.  Finding the right veterinary is a matter of doing a little research and getting advice from other people. Below are some tips for choosing the best vet for your pet. 

Credentials

The first thing that you would want to check is the vet's credentials.  The vet wearing urbane scrubs should be accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).  Even better if the vet is currently a member of the AVMA or other recognized local or state veterinary associations. You can also opt for a clinic or pet hospital who is a member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) to be assured of the highest standards and quality in equipment, facilities, and pet care.      

Personal service

Going to a well-known and highly sought out vet may be a safe bet but it is usually not a good idea as they are swamped with clients and may have not time to give personal service to your pet. Ask the vet who will take care of your pet if the doctor is unavailable.  In some clinics, associates are the ones who take care of the pets and rarely do veterinary doctors make an appearance.  Also, take note that some clinics or veterinary offices have more than one vet and thus some of these doctors may rotate shifts and share cases.  It can be confusing for you and you may not get the personal care that you seek for your pet.  Go with a friendly neighborhood veterinary doctor with a good reputation and can give the personal care that you require.         

Proximity

As mentioned, going with a neighborhood vet is beneficial. While convenience should not be the most important consideration, going with a vet that is near your home will be a huge relief in case of pet emergencies.   Also, neighborhood vets are more known in the community and you can get referrals from friends, colleagues and family regarding their experience. 

Visiting the vet

Schedule an appointment with the vet and ask what their regular hours are and see if it is compatible with your own schedule.  Also ask what their average wait time is for non-emergency appointments. When you visit the clinic, take note if the staff is friendly and if you are comfortable talking to the front desk staff, technicians, and doctors.  Also take note if the facility is clean, well-organized, well-equipped and free from pungent odors.  Ask the vet what kind of services they offer and what they do not offer and how these will be addressed (is there a network of medical specialists available if needed?).  Also ask about how emergency calls are handled, during office hours and after. Don't forget to ask the vet regarding the methods of payments that they accept and if they accept pet insurance (if you have one). 

About the Author:

Brent McNutt enjoys talking about urbane scrubs and landau scrubs and networking with healthcare professionals online.