Choosing a VeterinarianChoosing a veterinarian requires some research. Word of mouth from your friends is a good start.
Another excellent source is the American Veterinary Medical Association. They will have statistics on vets in your area and what their practice has to offer. You can contact them at AVMA.org. The AVMA monitors vets and their practice in all 50 states. Check out a few vets in your area. Make an appointment to talk to them before scheduling an appointment with your dog. When you arrive look around the waiting area. Is it clean and odor free? Is the receptionist courteous? Are the exam rooms clean? When you talk with the doctor, is he/she knowledgeable? Ask lots of questions. Is he/she enthusiastic about their practice? Were your questions answered completely in language you could understand? (Not doctor speak). Also find out the hours of operation of the practice. Do they have evening and weekend appointments? Do they offer emergency care? Can they visit the home if you can't get the dog to the office? When you are satisfied, go home and review what you have learned from the visits. Decide which practice you are happy with and make the appointment for your pet. This will be a long term relationship for your and your dog. We are very fortunate to have a wonderful vet and staff who have helped us and our kids through the good times and the bad. We hope you are as happy with your choice as we are with ours. return to dog health information from choosing a veterinarian |
