How to Find a Great Veterinarian
Locating a New Pet Health Team Can Be Daunting... But Do-able
Sep 23, 2009
Prior to moving, check the Internet for a listing of clinics. State and Provincial veterinary colleges often maintain a directory of hospitals and facilities according to location.
Create a Short List
Make a note of clinics within the new community then visit their websites to compare philosophies, skills and equipment. Check hospital hours, parking facilities, proximity to veterinary specialists and 24-hour emergency clinics, pet supply stores, professional dog trainers, groomers, and others involved in the pet business.
After settling in the new home, ask for clinic recommendations from pet-owning neighbours and staff at local pet supply stores then contact those suggested clinics to book an introductory appointment.
Tour the Facilities
Unless an invitation to bring your pet is extended, leave him or her at home. This will allow you the freedom to concentrate on the task at hand. The appointment should include a tour and short discussion with a veterinarian or veterinary technician to address areas of particular concern.
Ask Questions
Ask if the staff have sufficient experience in dealing with inherent health and behavioural issues specific to your own type and breed of pet.
Is the facility clean? Are the cages clean? Does the equipment appear clean? Does the clinic offer home visits when needed? If finances are a concern, does the clinic offer a payment plan or recommend outside pet-related financial services? Are all your questions answered in a manner that is understandable to you?
Look for subtle and not-so-subtle clues that veterinarians and staff are dedicated to their work, take pride in their level of care, are confident in their abilities, and compassionate toward both animals and owners.
As veterinary medicine evolves, many clinics now refer their clients to a variety of animal specialists in areas such as internal medicine, holistic care, neurology, dentistry, and many others. Ask if the veterinarians at the new clinic are comfortable in referring their clients should a medical condition occur that would be better assessed and managed by a specialist.
If there are people and animals at the clinic during your visit, listen in on conversations between clients and staff. Is there an atmosphere of mutual respect?
Gather all the information then choose the clinic that meets the majority of your needs.
Transferring Your Pets' Files
In the same way that human medical and dental records can be transferred between doctors and dentists, animal veterinary files can be sent electronically or through fax or mail between veterinary clinics. In these days of hands-on pet care, it's a good idea to ask for copies of those files for your own records.
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