Choosing the Right Vet

It's time right now to choose a vet for your dog if you have not yet done so. You don't want to wait until your guy really has a need. Make a choice now, while you have the luxury of time and can make a really good choice for your furry friend.

"Really, I'm fine!"

My Doc is outstanding. He loves dogs (and probably other animals too, but I hate to think about that!), is very compassionate and knowledgeable about me and also has a pretty good measure of his own dog-sense!

He will listen to my family, knowing they know me the best. He loves people who love their dogs and are crazy about them. He also knows how to courteously treat the people that are just crazy!

You should take every bit as much care in choosing your dog's Doc as you would for your own medical doctor. That's exactly what they are - the health care professional for your best furry friend and you are starting a long-term relationship!

Your veterinarian should be the best possible medical expert for your dog, should efficiently manage his staff and practice, interact well with humans and pets and should also meet your budget and convenience requirements.

Make a Good Choice!

• The Doc and staff are very service oriented, whether on the phone or in-person
• The office is clean, sanitary and well kept
• Office hours fit your needs and they offer access to 24/7 emergency service
• What happens when the doctor is not available?
• An in-house lab is convenient
• Surgeries can be performed in the office
• The office is conveniently located and a reasonable distance from you
• Special services that are important to you are provided, such as boarding, grooming or training
• Cost of basic services is reasonable and fits your budget

To find a good veterinarian, get recommendations from your friends, neighbors and other family members. If you happen to know any "dog professionals," such as trainers or pet-sitters, they can probably help you. You can also do a web search as a starting point.

Once you have a good short list of two or three, schedule a visit to each. Meet the doctor and his or her staff. Discuss their credentials. Is the doctor a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association or other professional associations? Talk to them about their approach to dog care (is preventative care important?) and ask about their capabilities and policies.

Just to be fully comfortable, you can also check to see if those on your list have any complaints against them. You will need to do a web search to find your State's Veterinary Medical Board.

Once you have made a selection and have visited a couple times, you will see how well the Doc and staff connect with your guy (and you). You will have a great sense about the office and the care being provided to your pal. If you have any doubt about it being the right place for you, start the process over again.

There are some truly outstanding veterinarians providing doggie medical care out there and one near you is perfect for your dog and you!

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