Finding the Dog Vet That Other Vets Would Recommend

Finding the right vet for your dog is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Finding the right vet is a process. Most people don't think about interviewing a vet to see if they are the right one, but it worth considering.

Find Some Popular Vets

Starting with proper research of area vets is ideal. Ask friends, co-workers or neighbors for their recommendations, and the following questions:

  • Why they choose the vet they did
  • What they like best about their dog's vet
  • What they like least

These will most likely help you narrow down the search. And, it's a much easier and effective way to go than picking vets out of the phone book.

Finding a Well-Educated Vet

After you have narrowed down the recommendations, it is time to do a little more research. Look into the veterinarian's education. If the vet specialized in an area that means he spent a few extra years in school and had to pass a special and difficult test to gain his certification. Use this information to further narrow your choices.

Make Appointments to Meet Vets

Once you have a list of a few potential vets for your dog, make an appointment to meet them. The goal of this first appointment is to evaluate the clinic, the staff and the vet. The vet may be phenomenal, but if the clinic is dirty or the staff is unfriendly or seemingly inept, you won't have a good experience with the clinic in the long term.

Make Sure You Like the Vet

During your appointment with the vet it is a good idea to ask questions that will help you evaluate whether or not you and the vet will get along. It is important to find out what their philosophy of veterinary care is. You will also want to pay close attention to how the staff and the vet interact with your dog and how your dog interacts with them. You know you dog and you will be able to tell right away if this is not the place for your pet.

Compare the Costs from Vet to Vet

Last, but not least, it is important to look at costs. This is not the first thing to consider, but you still have to find the best doctor for you. Ask each office you visit about various veterinarian exams and procedures, but make sure you are comparing apples with apples when you do this.

Making sure you find the vet that other vets would recommend is a process, and sometimes it's worth paying a little more to ensure that you've found the right vet for you and your dog.

 

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