Finding the Right Veterinarian
The art of veterinary medicine has grown by leaps and bounds over the years. Many modern diagnostic techniques and treatment options are now available which offers our pets a longer and healthier lifespan.
When my husband and I moved from New York to Florida, a huge challenge with which we were faced was finding an exceptional local veterinarian. With the abundance of hanging shingles in our neighborhood coupled with advertisements galore in local newspapers, how were we going to make the right choice in getting the best practioner for our cats? I was greatly concerned.
Of course the first thing we did was to check with friends, asking for referrals, but after several visits to a few of these clinics, it became obvious that the scope of their practices was quite limited, and the need for canine care was in more demand. Most of the local vets were not particularly sophisticated in the feline department. Having cats with chronic medical conditions necessitated our finding someone who could handle these concerns without resorting to send us off to specialists on a regular basis. While referrals are occasionally warranted, we preferred to work with someone who was more adept at feline care.
So what exactly were we looking for? It was for someone who could perform not only yearly checkups and who was "up to date" about vaccine protocols. We wanted a practitioner who could provide both routine veterinary care as our cats matured, which encompassed medical conditions which might present themselves. I was becoming frustrated until I located a "feline only" practitioner within reach.
As far as I am concerned, most of the time a practitioner who specializes in the feline species is more likely to be more current with technique and able to handle cats more easily. Additionally, if the practice does not provide separate waiting rooms, one doesn't have to put up with barking dogs in the waiting room, which can spook even the most docile kitty.
Based on my experience, let me share some basic requirements which I consider important when seeking the best veterinary practice.
*Is the clinic clean and organized?
*Are the waiting rooms inviting?
*Does the clinic provide separate waiting rooms for cats and dogs? Is the staff friendly and helpful?
*Do the technicians answer your questions and show concern and interest for your pet?
*Is the administrative staff friendly? The best veterinarian in the world cannot function well and counts greatly on support staff in order to provide the most appropriate care for your pet.
*Since most cats dislike traveling, is there a house call veterinarian available in your area?
*Does the clinic offer after-hours emergency services? If not, please locate emergency clinics ahead of time. Put phone numbers in easy to find locations. Make a test run to the facility in advance to familiarize you with both the location and the clinic staff.
Take time to do thorough research by visiting clinics and talking with the staff. This will give you first hand information about the kinds of services that are offered and if you are comfortable there. Since your veterinarian will be the second most important person in your pets' lives, making the right choice is critical.
Visit http://organizedwisdom.com/helpbar/index.html?return=http://organizedwisdom.com/How_to_Pick_the_Best_Vet&url=www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/choosing_a_veterinarian.html
for more information and resources.
What kinds of experiences have you had in locating an exceptional veterinarian? Please share them with us by leaving a comment.
For more on this, check out How to Choose the Right Vet
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Comments (4)
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Vicki March 18, 2009 3:58 PM
I really appreciate this article. I do not believe that just because a person has DVM by their name makes them a good vet. I do know that because I have several animals, some aging, that everyone should have confidence in their vet and know that their chosen vet is giving them the best and most complete service they can give. I have had some not so good vets in the past. And this is where the old saying, "experience is the best teacher", really comes to light.
Donna March 18, 2009 5:44 PM
When my vet of over 20 years retired I was crushed. The "new owner" of the practice spent quite a long time there working alongside Bill, getting to know the clients. He actually spent 45 minutes on the phone with me at no charge discussing Wheezel's urinary problems! He's a super guy, but the woman vet that is there is my all time favorite. When I had to have Flakey put down, they were having a very VERY busy day, but made me feel like Flakey and I were the only two patients in the building, gave us all the time together that we needed, and allowed me to leave (in tears of course) out the back door, settling the bill later. Bill obviously did a great deal of work finding these vets and the practice has grown so that Bill goes back and does surgeries part time! While I might find a vet a bit less expensive, they are very supportive of indoor cats NOT needing annual innoculations after a certain age...and are always able to get you in when you need it.
If your vet doesn't treat you the same way...talk to friends with animals and see how they feel about their vets. I've referred probably a dozen people to Day Heights, I say "Just talk to Patty and tell them Donna sent you!".
I may end up trying a mobile vet for my eldest, Pirate, as he has a heart condition and I'm not sure how he'd manage the trip, even though it's only about 3 miles. If I could find someone to drive while I held him he might be OK, but I feel it would be way to stressful to put him in a carrier and drive myself. He's losing weight, but is still very active, shiney, clear gorgeous eyes and plays laser light a lot. For now, I'm not borrowing trouble...he's healthy for a nearly 15 year old!
Skylark March 18, 2009 7:02 PM
I work as a veterinary assistant at a wonderful animal hospital, run by three female DVMs. Our motto is "Clients don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
Amy March 19, 2009 5:37 AM
The vet clinic I visit fits your description to a "T". I have used the same clinic for about 40 years, sure there has been changes in staff over the passing of time but they always hire people with the same compassion and dedication.
I even had a vet write out a prescription to tell hubby don't over feed the dogs, which was very funny but hubby got the message loud and clear.