How to Find a Good Local Veterinarian
If you've recently brought home a new pet or you've moved with your pet, finding a veterinarian in your area is probably on your to-do list. The following are some guidelines to help you pick a vet near you. While it's by no means an exhaustive list, it can help pinpoint the right person for you and for your animal.
Guidelines to Find a Veterinarian
Willingness to listen, answer questions, and communicate easily: You want to feel comfortable asking your veterinarian anything — especially if you're new to taking care of a pet or a certain medical condition — and have the vet give you information in a way that you can understand and use it.
Kindness and patience: A good vet should be able to walk you through how to care for your pet without making you feel inept or confused.
Professional skills: Does the vet keep up with the latest developments in the veterinary field that will help your animal?
Accessibility: Will the vet be available, especially in a crisis? When searching for “vets near me” or “vets in my area,” be sure to check their hours and emergency policies.
Generous nature: Are you just a money machine for your vet’s office? You want to feel as if they are taking into account your costs, especially if you are in rescue work and are bringing in a lot of animals.
Love of animals: You'll definitely want a vet who loves animals as much as you do — and who doesn't make you feel as though the care they provide is just "business" or "work." How does the vet interact with your pet? Are they warm, comfortable, and considerate of your pet's needs? Does the vet's advice always center on the well-being of the animal?
Referral from a friend: This can be a good way to choose a vet. But remember that just because the referral came from a friend, it doesn't mean that the vet will be right for you and your needs. If something doesn't feel like a good fit, move on.
Supplies You'll Need
List of questions
Pet Medical Records
Referrals or recommendations
Step By Step
Research Local Veterinarians:
Use online searches, reviews, and recommendations from friends or pet communities to compile a list of potential vets.
Check Their Qualifications & Experience:
Look for vets who stay up to date with the latest medical advancements and have experience relevant to your pet’s needs.
Scedule a Visit or Consultation:
Arrange a visit to evaluate the clinic, meet the vet, and observe how they interact with animals and pet owners.
Assess Their Communication Style:
A good vet should be approachable, willing to answer questions, and able to explain medical information in an easy-to-understand way.
Observe Their Interaction with Your Pet:
The vet should be kind, patient, and genuinely care about animals, making your pet feel comfortable and safe.
Consider Accessibility & Emergency Care:
Ensure the vet’s availability aligns with your schedule and check if they offer emergency services or referrals to emergency clinics.
Evaluate Costs & Billing Practices:
A good vet should be transparent about costs and considerate of financial limitations, especially if you have multiple pets or do rescue work.
Trust Your Instincts:
If something feels off, don’t hesitate to look for another vet. The right choice should make both you and your pet feel comfortable and cared for.
Article courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society