We all love our pets. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that 36.5% of American households include pet dogs, and 30.4% include pet cats. But when it comes to taking care of our animals’ medical needs, finding a vet can be overwhelming. Here are three basic tips to get you started on finding a vet perfect for you and your pet.
- Find a Vet With a Great Staff
Your pet’s primary vet should be your first concern. Make sure he or she is well qualified and experienced, but also pay attention to interaction with animals. A good vet will project a calm yet assertive attitude when dealing with scared or unruly pets.
But there’s a lot more to a vet’s staff than just your vet. Veterinarian assistants and veterinarian technicians will perform quite a few of the procedures, just as nurses and physician’s assistants do when you go to the doctor. Ask any potential vets about their hiring practices and make sure your pet feels at home with everyone in the office.
- Find a Vet With Access to Emergency Equipment
There may be times when you find yourself needing to rush to the nearest 24 hour animal hospital. But even your regular vet should have x-ray, ultrasound and IV capabilities and provide dental and eye care. You should also ask if your vet has an emergency line that you can call 24/7 or if it partners with an emergency facility.
- Find a Vet With Pet Boarding Kennels
In order to give your pet a consistent experience, choose a vet that also offers boarding or doggy day care. This will limit the number of strangers your pet will need to adjust to, since that process can be overwhelming. A good pet boarding facility won’t simply kennel your dog when you’re out of town; ask if the staff take the dogs on walks, play games and pay attention to their nutrition.
A vet facility that offers boarding offers medical advantages as well. If an emergency arises while you’re out of town, they’ll already have access to all the necessary records, and you can rest easy knowing your furriest family member is in good hands.
And remember, even healthy pets need a checkup at least once a year. What advice do you have on how to find a good vet? Share in the comments.
