When looking for a professional veterinary clinic, keep in mind they’ll be doing more than just performing check-ups and administering vaccines. They’ll be concerned with many stages of both your dog’s life and yours—plan for your dog’s life by choosing wisely.
Assess not just the doctors but the entire staff. Assistants included, technicians, and administrative employees as well. You won’t have a pleasing experience if the front office staff can’t keep your appointments straight, no matter how great the vet is.
Lower costs and convenient hours are excellent things to consider, but at what cost? For instance, if the facility is messy or the office is understaffed, the money and time you are saving may not be worth the possible cost to your dog’s health. You should consider a professional veterinary clinic based on what is essential to you while remembering you and your dog will likely be healthier and happier if you drive a few extra miles or pay a few extra money to get the level of care you both want and need.
Where To Find a Professional Veterinary Clinic?
The most excellent way to locate a professional veterinary clinic is to check with someone who has the same thoughts on dog care as you do. Family, pet sitters, friends, or kennel employees may have suggestions. Check Yellow Pages or the Internet under “Veterinarians” and “Animal Hospitals,” where you can also see hours, services, location, and specialties.
Once you have collected a list, call and make an appointment to visit the facility greet the staff and doctors. Find out about the clinic’s values, hours, and philosophy toward pets and people. This is a reasonable request that any professional veterinary clinic would fill. Save time by making a list of questions or details needed before going.
What should be included in my evaluation?
- does the clinic appear organized; Is it clean in appearance and odor?
- How many doctors practice at the clinic?
- How many vet assistants or technicians work at the clinic?
- Does the staff empathize with the pets and listen to clients? Are they experienced and well-trained?
- Are all medical diagnoses and procedures (x-rays, ultrasound, blood work, for example) served at the clinic? If not, which are referred to a specialist?
- Does the clinic offer emergency services?
- Do the hours work for your schedule? Is the clinic located conveniently?
How Can We Be Good Patients?
The vet you pick isn’t just for when your dog becomes sick. First and foremost, they are there to assist you in preventing your dog from becoming unwell, knowing what normal behavior for your dog will allow you to spot when something isn’t right. If your dog is sick, don’t hesitate to take him to the vet. It can be devastating for your dog and you if you wait, only to find out that he could have been treated if you had only brought him into the clinic earlier.
Be on time when you make an appointment, and always bring your dog in a carrier or on a leash when you come to protect both other patients and your dog. Call the clinic to ensure a doctor is available if you have an emergency problem. Be sure to keep the number for an emergency clinic in your area during off hours.
Be sure to post and write all of the Vet and Emergency Vet numbers in your home. Save the numbers into your phone. Put your dog in the car and drive a practice run to the clinic to see how long it takes. Do the same with the emergency vet clinic if separate. If problems occur during off-hours, you will have to judge whether it is an emergency or not. Try not to call your vet during off-hours if it can wait until they are available. Most vets will not diagnose medical cases over the phone due to multiple unknown factors.
How Can I Be A Conscientious Dog Owner?
The first thing is to aid with the pet overpopulation issue. Has your dog spayed as soon as he reaches a reasonable age? Spaying and neutering can also assist your dog in preventing behavioral and medical problems. Keep your dog indoors when possible, and be certain outdoor kennels and doghouses are comfortable, clean, and protected from the elements. When you adopt a dog, remember you are making a lifetime commitment; and by finding a professional veterinary clinic, you’re aiding your dog to have a healthy, quality life.
Remember, your friend can’t talk, so you are responsible for your his care. If you or your pet is not obtaining the quality care you desire, it is time start looking for a new professional veterinary clinic. First, try to work out the situation with the doctor. Lack of communication or misapprehension could be the reason for the issue and simply informing the vet may fix the problem to everyone’s delight.