There are many health care decisions you will need to make over the life time of your pet but the most important is your choice of a veterinary clinic. Not only will your veterinarian be advising you on the care of your healthy pet but he or she will also be there to provide medical care should a health problem arise. What is the best way to find a clinic that meets your individual needs as a pet owner?
- Recommendation of a friend or relative – Talk to people who have the same ideas about pet care and pet ownership that you do.
- What veterinary clinic do they use?
- Why do they chose to go there?
- Do they feel confident that their veterinarian and their staff have you and your pet’s best interests at heart?
- Call the clinics in your area to discuss your veterinary care needs with the receptionist or office manager.
- Do they take the time to discuss more than veterinary costs with you?
- Do they ask questions and have an interest in your needs?
- What species do they care for?
- Do their hours fit your schedule?
- How many veterinarians do they have on staff?
- Do they employ animal health technicians to assist with patient care?
- Do they have in house diagnostics such as a laboratory, digital xray, ultrasound etc?
- Do they offer any special services that might interest you such as obedience training, boarding, premium pet food?
- How are after hours emergencies handled? Is there and emergency clinic or a veterinarian available if I have an emergency with my pet at night or on the weekend?
- Do the veterinarians use and recommend the services of specialists if needed?
- Do the veterinarians update their skills and knowledge on a regular basis in an effort to offer you up to date care for your pet?
- What is the clinic’s philosophy on pain management post-surgery and for painful medical conditions?