On April 27th we celebrate World Vet Day, in honour of the men and women who dedicate their lives to helping us keep our pets and animals healthy, happy and safe.
Are you in search of a new vet? Maybe you’re thinking of adopting a pet - or recently did!? If you google “vet” you’ll probably find a ton of options at your fingertips. Choosing the right one is a little harder. So, we thought we’d share with you a little about the process of finding the right veterinarian for your pet.
The best way to assess the suitability of a vet or vet clinic for your pet is by going there yourself. Bring your pet so they can get a feel for the place, and for them to meet their potential new veterinarian. Below are the five things you should consider when choosing a veterinarian for your pet:
1. Environment
From the first call you make to book an appointment to when you and your pet walk in the door, feel out the environment. Start with reading online reviews of the facility - and then use your own judgment. Are the staff friendly? Informed? Professional? Does your pet get stressed meeting strangers? Consider how calm or boisterous the staff is. Is the vibe right for your pet?
2. Philosophy
There are some touchy subjects when it comes to pet health that can set people on edge, like euthanasia, chronic disease planning, to spaying and neutering. It’s important to make sure your philosophies are in sync, or you’re willing to hear altering perspectives. Asking your vet questions about these things can be difficult, but are a necessary part of choosing the right vet for your pet.
3. Availability
While a quiet clinic may mean free openings for all, it might not be a good sign. Empty clinics can suggest poor quality of care - so we’d opt for a busier clinic with a strong reputation. Usually, busy clinics have extra staff on-call for emergencies, so your pet won’t be unable to get care - it just means planning ahead for general check-ups or scheduling procedures.
4. Pricing
While every pet deserves the best care, not all of us can afford exuberant pricing. Ask your vet for general pricing or a price list, and inquire about payment plans. Of course, always be sure to purchase pet insurance in case of an emergency.
5. Your Pet
Don’t forget the most important consideration: does your pet like this vet? Introduce them and let them hang out for a little bit. Pets are usually a great judge of whether this new human is right for them or not. If they get along and meet the criteria above, you may just have found the person who’s going to help you keep them happy and healthy for the rest of their life.
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