A good veterinarian ensures your pet's health and your peace of mind. Use these tips to find someone who is knowledgeable, kind, and dedicated to taking care of your furry, feathered, or scaly friend.
Don't wait
The worst time to see a veterinarian is when you really need it. Even before you get a pet, your veterinarian can help you determine which type is best for your family's needs and lifestyle.
If you already have a pet but are moving to a new city or are dissatisfied with your current veterinarian, start considering your options before your pet becomes ill or has an accident. This will give you time to do a thorough search.
Ask around
Do you have friends who love pets as much as you do? Find out where they're being taken. A personal reference may be more reliable than a rating site, especially if the pet owner's criteria are similar to your own.
If you have a purebred dog or cat, or a non-traditional pet, you should check with your local breeder or professional group. That member may have a close relationship with the practice of understanding your pet's needs and potential health problems.
Check your credentials
The American Association of Animal Hospitals (AAHA) recognizes clinics that demonstrate the highest standards of care. You can visit our website to find a certified facility near you.
You can also visit the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners website to find board-certified veterinarians. This meant an additional 2-4 years of research into specialized areas such as cat and dog, bird and reptile care, or exotic animals.
Plan your visit
Once you find a clinic you like, request an appointment with a veterinarian to discuss your questions. Write them down before you go. There are a few things to note.
• What are your office hours? Does it fit your schedule?
• Can I contact staff by email or SMS?
• Are you doing telemedicine?
• Does the facility provide after-hours emergency service? What about grooming and boarding?
• Does the veterinarian have a network of specialists to refer if needed?
• Is it okay to raise concerns with a veterinarian?
• How long does it usually take to make an appointment?
• If I have more than one vet, can I request a specific vet? • Do you offer payment plans or accept care loans?
• If you have or are considering pet insurance, will the hospital accept your plan?
Also, ask if you can bring your pet to the meeting so you can get a feel for how the vet interacts with them. Note how easy it is to find .
Take a tour
When you get there, ask to see the office. You can see if it's clean (it shouldn't smell bad), if cats and dogs are comfortably kept apart, and how the waiting and treatment rooms are organized. You can also see the interaction with staff such as receptionists and veterinarians.
Don't wait
The worst time to see a veterinarian is when you really need it. Even before you get a pet, your veterinarian can help you determine which type is best for your family's needs and lifestyle.
If you already have a pet but are moving to a new city or are dissatisfied with your current veterinarian, start considering your options before your pet becomes ill or has an accident. This will give you time to do a thorough search.
Ask around
Do you have friends who love pets as much as you do? Find out where they're being taken. A personal reference may be more reliable than a rating site, especially if the pet owner's criteria are similar to your own.
If you have a purebred dog or cat, or a non-traditional pet, you should check with your local breeder or professional group. That member may have a close relationship with the practice of understanding your pet's needs and potential health problems.
Check your credentials
The American Association of Animal Hospitals (AAHA) recognizes clinics that demonstrate the highest standards of care. You can visit our website to find a certified facility near you.
You can also visit the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners website to find board-certified veterinarians. This meant an additional 2-4 years of research into specialized areas such as cat and dog, bird and reptile care, or exotic animals.
Plan your visit
Once you find a clinic you like, request an appointment with a veterinarian to discuss your questions. Write them down before you go. There are a few things to note.
• What are your office hours? Does it fit your schedule?
• Can I contact staff by email or SMS?
• Are you doing telemedicine?
• Does the facility provide after-hours emergency service? What about grooming and boarding?
• Does the veterinarian have a network of specialists to refer if needed?
• Is it okay to raise concerns with a veterinarian?
• How long does it usually take to make an appointment?
• If I have more than one vet, can I request a specific vet? • Do you offer payment plans or accept care loans?
• If you have or are considering pet insurance, will the hospital accept your plan?
Also, ask if you can bring your pet to the meeting so you can get a feel for how the vet interacts with them. Note how easy it is to find .
Take a tour
When you get there, ask to see the office. You can see if it's clean (it shouldn't smell bad), if cats and dogs are comfortably kept apart, and how the waiting and treatment rooms are organized. You can also see the interaction with staff such as receptionists and veterinarians.
