Whether you are looking to become a first-time pet parent or you're a seasoned four-legged family, odds are you know just how important it is to have a good vet. Just like us humans, it is important to take your pet’s health seriously… but how?
Different vets have different philosophies – just like doctors. Unfortunately, not all providers are created equal. It is crucial to do your research when selecting medical care for your furry friend. Let’s discuss some key considerations to keep in mind.
Let’s start simple – when should I pick out a vet?
It is important you have a vet on hand from the moment you have a furry friend in the family. Best case scenario, maybe you pick out a vet before picking up your new pet. You don’t want to be in a time of need and stressed about locating care.
Consider taking your new pet to the vet first thing depending on how you adopted your new pal. It isn’t a bad idea to get a baseline assessment and ensure your pet’s health as young and as new to you as possible.
Maybe moving is on your radar. This can be stressful, but try not to forget locating a new vet from your pre-move checklist! Especially if you will be in a new place, it is crucial to establish your new medical proximity.
How to Pick a Vet
There is no perfect recipe to finding a new vet, but here are some suggestions! For starters, ask around. Friends, family, neighbors – referrals can be key. If you are adopting a new furry friend, consider asking their shelter, breeder, or foster family for a rec.
Doing the Research
Maybe you are starting from scratch. Check out Yelp and Google! Simple, I know, but you can get pretty granular in your review searches. This can help you align your priorities with a new provider.
Did you know you can verify a veterinarian’s license? Check out the American Association of Veterinary State Boards! There are also other voluntary accreditations like the American Animal Hospital Association. I invite you to research what accreditations are valuable to you.
Considerations
One of the most important factors for you and your floof’s relationship with their new medical provider is accessibility. Maybe a certain vet has rave reviews! But, what if it takes forever to get in to see them? How close are they to your home?
Maybe you need certain hours that align with your unique schedule. Are they open in the evenings? Weekends? Do they have any offered emergency services? If not, do they have a recommended emergency hospital? It is always good to plan ahead, not during the time of crisis.
Maybe your pet has really bad car anxiety… close proximity may be crucial to their wellbeing. Maybe you live in a rural area and you’ll need to find the nearest city’s residential expert. What if there are conflicting priorities – say, a vet that is further away, but with really good reviews?
What is most important is figuring out your priorities!
So, then what? Maybe you have some vets in mind. Consider arranging a trip to the vet without your furry friend out of an abundance of caution! Ask if the office does tours. This way you can assess your comfortability with their space.
Once You Get There
Here are some things to keep in mind when you are at a new vet:
- Does the space (waiting room and exam rooms) seem clean?
- Do you find the staff friendly and respectful?
- Do you feel your pet feels cared for?
- Does your pet seem to feel safe and as comfortable as possible?
- Do you feel the providers are good listeners and address your concerns?
- How do the other pets and their owners seem – calm or nervous?
Do you plan to travel internationally with your pet?
If so, “you’ll need a veterinarian who is accredited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide the health certificate you’ll need for travel” according to WebMD. This information can be found on the USDA website.
Deciding to Change Vets
It is important to recognize that you can always change vets for any reason! Simply request a copy of your pet’s records for your next vet. There is no rule you have to stick with a provider if you don’t feel they align with you and your special friend. You should feel empowered to not settle!
In Closing…
It is all about your priorities! What is going to work for you? You and your pet’s needs might be unique and what works for one family might not work for the next. Find what aligns with you and your pet’s lifestyles. And when you find a good vet… make sure you tell them you appreciate them!
