Finding the Right Vet for Your Pet

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One of the most important decisions you'll make as a pet parent is finding a quality health care provider for your furry friend. Selecting the right veterinarian is a personal decision, but you'll want to choose a practice that offers the highest available standard of care.

When Should I Look for a Vet?

Guardians seek out new vets for a variety of reasons, including a recent adoption or move, concerns about a current vet's quality of care or treatment for a pet's specific health problem.

How Do I Look for a Vet?

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) evaluates veterinary practices on the quality of their facilities, staff, equipment and patient care. Search the organization's website at www.aahanet.org for a list of accredited vets in your area.

It's also a good idea to ask for recommendations from friends, family and trusted neighbors-especially those who take a keen interest in their dogs' health and well-being.

How Do I Decide Which Vet Is right for My Dog?

Here are some things to consider when selecting a vet:

• Arrange for a first appointment without your dog to speak with a veterinarian and get an overall feel of the facilities.
• During your appointment, look around and consider whether the space is clean, modern and well-organized.
• Inquire about the number of vets on staff. In many practices, vets may share responsibility for patients and cover for each other during vacations or other absences.
• Do you have good rapport with the vet? Effective communication is essential to any health care relationship.
• Ask questions! Don't be shy; most vets appreciate it when their clients take an interest in their pets' care.

What Questions Should I Ask When I'm Selecting a Vet?

Although your questions may vary depending on the reason for your visit, you can use the following list as a guide:

• Is the practice AAHA-accredited?
• How are overnight patients monitored?
• What sort of equipment does the practice use?
• Does the vet refer patients to specialists?
• How are patients evaluated before anesthesia and surgery?
• Does the practice have licensed veterinary technicians on staff?
• What is the protocol for pain management?