How to select a vet

[RoughCollies]

Well, it seems I will be on my way to NY very soon. Once I get there, I will have to find a vet right away. I want to put a list together of important things to look for in a vet. Hopefully this will help me find my new vet and any others in a similar position who reads this thread.

So, what do YOU look for when picking out a vet for your dog?

[SalemWitchChild]

Honestly trial and error. I know you don't want to hear that though. Of course word of mouth is great too. I start with the closest and try the others and see who I like best.

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

I pick 6-8 different ones, go to their location and talk to them in person.
I make a list of questions relating to their philosophy on dog care, caring for an elderly dog, how do they manage emergencies after hours, ask things about their boarding practices. Ask if they embrace any holistic medicine models, how do they keep current on new techniques, etc. And, always get a tour of the facilities. I always get a price list for the most common stuff like vaccines, teeth cleaning, urinalysis, bloodwork.

If they can't make time for you now, I question how they'll make time for you later.

Also, I ask around to neighbors, etc. And, I use a product called Angie's List which rates all kinds of services, like a vet, and has ratings entered by people living in your city. I'm a member and can run some names for you once you get there. Also, once you narrow it down, check the Better Business Bureau.

[EmmaGirl]

I totally agree with Deb. Doing an 'interview' with a prospective person that you will be entrusting your dog's health and well being too, can avoid so much disappointment in the long run. I also watch how they handle their animal and people clients. I've had vets that will talk to me and never say a word to one of my pets. My favorite vet is a wonderful woman who has a gentle nature and talks and nurtures my dogs.

It's ok to take recommendations from friends but I did that once and was not as nearly 'taken' with that particular vet as a couple of my friends were. Remember that you are in the process of looking for someone to hire and fire if you are unhappy with their service.

[weezyNollie]

Here's a helpful list based on the facility.. they should have good vets.

1. AAHA Accredited
2. Design of hospital
3. Cleanliness of hospital
4. Services they offer (in house lab work? ultrasound? intensive care? boarding? grooming? etc)
5. More than 1 doctor?
6. What's the front desk staff like?
7. Technical staff? Happy? Older? Younger?

Then, yes ask the hospital or the specific doctor it's opinions on things. You know what you think is right, and necessary. Vaccine once a year, or every 3 years? See if they are old school medicine or newer.

[Faith]

ask how they handle charging. do they allow patients to make payment plans, or is everything up front?

[rutylr]

I went thru every vet in town,before I settled on a vet thats about 30 mins away.There are 4 doctors at this office and all of them are great.

[borzoimom]

I ask what procedures can be done in office- including blood work tests, x ray abilities, ultrasound ability, vets on staff and do they also have interns. Emergency hours or ability to page a vet, if staffed over night and under what situations.And do they board- ( remember this brings in other dogs into the center) and if so what is required to board. Ask to see the facilities- understanding some areas are off limits. Uh- lets see- oh what other clients have your breed and would they possibly give a reference. They should also be board certified etc. ( while that is a given- you would be surprised..). Forms of payment etc.
Sit in the lobby for a while- watch how they are with the pets. Are they sympathic or cold? Is it a clean place? Do the vets and techs listen to you and accept as they are your dogs you know them best. ARe they receptive to information or are you treated like a lecture with little input etc..

[Bclover92]

thansk for starting this i am looking for a vet now cause skye needs to get fixed like this month and i am having trouble figuring it out. But i have kimberly here so she can help me cause she kind of knows...lol

[RoughCollies]

Thanks, guys! That's really helpful.