Choosing a Vet

CHOOSING A VET

Veterinarians are a key to monitoring animal health and choosing a vet is an integral part of pet ownership. Thanks to the availability of high quality medical services and pet-owners’ careful monitoring of their animals for early signs of illness, today’s pets are living longer, healthier lives, as are their human owners. With so much attention being given by owners to their pets’ daily needs, it makes sense to take some time in selecting a veterinarian who will become that pet’s health care provider, just as much as it makes sense to carefully choose your personal physician or dentist.

Think about what is important to you:

Location.

Convenient hours.

Range of medical services.

Friendliness and commitment of doctors and staff.

Payment options.

Your goal should be to find the veterinarian whom you believe can best meet your pet’s medical needs and with whom you feel comfortable in establishing a long-term relationship.

The veterinarian you choose will want to maintain an ongoing history of your pet, including health records that detail immunizations, reactions to medications, surgical procedures, behavior traits, etc. He or she will also advise you on the best preventive care program available to maintain your pet’s health.

Since there are many insurance options now available, you will want bring the vet into the loop and allow him to pass judgment on the insurance policy you are considering. Most policies available cover only serious illness and injury. As with human health policies, more comprehensive policies cost more money. Spend what you can afford, and cover the risks that are most appropriate. Your vet’s recommendations may be of help.

Broadcasting to other pet owners by word of mouth that you are looking for a vet is generally a good first step in choosing a veterinarian. Why did they choose the vet they did? If you believe their expectations of service are similar to yours, you may want to schedule a visit to the facility.

If you have a purebred dog or cat, area breed clubs can be a good source in choosing a vet. They have often established a strong relationship with a practice that specifically addresses the needs of your breed.

The business pages of a phone book or yellow pages can give you further leads. The Internet for also can provide you with a wealth of information.

If you are relocating to another city or state, your current vet can become a source. Many times former schoolmates or conference goers can give you insight into the practices available in the new town.

Your current veterinarian should also provide you with copies of your pet’s medical records to take to the new practice to ensure your pet’s medical history is available to the new staff. You should bring your current vet into the loop when choosing a veterinarian in another town.

By choosing a veterinarian before acquiring a new pet, you can keep him in the loop and perhaps his or her insight into your lifestyle and personality, if properly communicated will enable him to assist you in avoiding the wrong pet.

It is best to have established a relationship with a veterinarian before your pet becomes ill and needs significant care. Consider scheduling an initial visit soon after arriving at your new home as you would your own personal physician. This is a stressful time for you both. Your veterinarian will suggest ways to help your pet become accustomed to its new environment.

When choosing a veterinary practice, first schedule a visit with the veterinarian to discuss your pet and ask questions about fees and services. You may want to visit several practices before making a final selection.

In order for your veterinarian to maintain your pet’s good health, it is important for you to schedule regular checkups and practice preventive care at home. At each appointment, be sure to communicate clearly your pet’s behavior and habits. Since many signs of illness are subtle, even minor changes in your pet’s behavior can give your doctor valuable information on what might become a serious health issue. Cats, in particular, are very good at hiding what ails them, often until its too late. Your vet and you are the eyes and ears of the pet when it comes to illness. Take the signs gleaned from your joint observations, and heed them well.

Remember that veterinarians care as much about you as an owner as they do about your pets. They are available to give you the information and resources you need to take the best possible care of your animals. By taking the time to choose a veterinarian that you feel confident can provide for your needs as an owner and the medical needs of your pet, you will establish a rewarding partnership.

PET HEALTH