A
healthy dog is a happy dog, and having a good veterinarian
plays a key part in keeping
your
canine companion in the best health possible. In fact,
choosing your veterinarian may possible be the most
important decision you will make for your dog.
Even
if you don't yet have a dog, it's a good idea to select
a veterinarian before you bring a
dog into your home. This is because you new pet will
most likely require a physical examination
and vaccinations.
Before
you can actually decide what vet to take your dog
to you must have some possible vets to choose from.
You can start finding some out about some clinics
by asking your friends,
family and neighbours about their vet. Breed clubs,
private rescue organization and local animal service
agencies may also be able to provide you with valuable
information.
Once
you have narrowed down your options, you will want
to begin visiting the clinics (or
simply calling them on the phone) and assessing some
things:
Communication
Skills
Be sure that you are comfortable talking
with the veterinarian you will be working with. A
veterinarian should not talk down to you, but should
treat you with respect. They should be able to explain
your dog's situations to you in plain English listen
carefully to what you have to say. Remember it's very
important that you tell your veterinarian everything
you know about your dog's health as you are the one
who spends time with him/her the most.
Competence
Learn
as much about a vet's background as you can. What
training have they had? Do they know what to look
for and when they need more information? Do they stay
up to date on the latest in veterinary science? Are
they willing to refer you to a specialist if necessary?
Convenience
How
convenient is it for you to take your dog to the vet?
Pay special attention
to a clinic's hours of operation and whether or not
they can handle
emergency situations. You should also include parking
and the distance
from your house into the equation.
Facility
Is
the facility clean? Does it smell nice? Do they have
the type of equipment
necessary to care for you dog and assess certain situations?
This
factor is very important.
Fees
Ah
yes! You were thinking of this one all along weren't
you? It's true, this is also a very important
factor in any decision that you make. It is
generally
true that a higher price is a reflection of the services
offered (you
get what you pay for), however there are some exceptions
to the rule.
You may also wish to know when you must pay for care
and how you
can pay for it -- Some veterinary clinics may not
accepts checks, some
may take credit cards, you get the idea. It is always
fair to expect one
things however; honest estimates of projected cost
and updated figures
as care continues.
Good
Record Keeping
It
is very important for a vet to be aware of your dog's
past health. Also, if you ever switch veterinarians
or see a specialist your records will be essential
to that individual.
Policies
You
should be aware of policies that certain clinics may
have. Some we have already gone over, -- emergency
policies, fees - however you should also find out
if you can request a certain veterinarian otherwise
you may find that your dog is being seen by someone
different every time he or she attend the clinic.
Services
Be
aware of services offered by a vet or clinic. Do they
specialize in diabetic dogs? Do they give dental cleanings?
Be sure to ask about anything that might be specific
to your dog's needs.
Staff
Staff
should be friendly and courteous. Also it might be
nice to know if they are actually answering the phone
when you call or if you are going to get a machine
or answering service.
After
you have selected a veterinarian it is important that
try to create a positive long term relationship with
that individual. It's okay to switch vet's if you
honestly think thatthere is a better alternative.
However, remember that you are going to want your
vet to recognize your pets and know them almost as
well as you do.
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