How To Find The Right Vet For Your Dog In Your New Town

Moving homes can be a heavy load on your shoulders. Whether it is simply moving across town, to a new state, or even to a new country, change will be inevitable. The feeling of unfamiliarity may be cumbersome; it involves adapting to an entirely new environment. If you have a dog in your family, another thing that may be on your list of things to do is finding a quality veterinarian in your new town.

 

Why It Matters

 

Choosing the right veterinarian is a decision that should not be taken lightly. This decision making process may be time consuming, but it’s important to choose wisely and make sure you find a vet that accommodates to you and your pet’s needs and wants.

 

It is also important to choose one carefully in advance, rather than having to make a rushed decision when you really need one. That way, you and your furry friend can receive treatment from someone you both can trust and feel comfortable with.

 

You will want to choose a quality health care provider for your pet, just as you would for yourself!

 

Where Should You Start?

Begin your search by first heading to American Animal Hospital Association.

 

AAHA.org is a platform where you can check vet practice evaluations based on quality of facilities, staff, equipment, etc. You can check out the site for a list of accredited vets in your new area. This is a great place to start and may narrow down your search.

 

Need some more assistance? Try asking those around you that you can trust for some recommendations and/or advice.

 

Schedule Your Dog A Visit

Once you narrow down your search, the next thing you would want to do is schedule a visit. This is a great time for your dog to meet his or her new vet.

 

You should also ask to personally meet the staff, tour the facility, and learn about the hospital’s policies. If you have any questions you want to ask, have them ready so that you can get all your answers during your visit.

 

Also, try to be observant of the facility as well as the character of the vets and staff members during your visit. You can potentially learn a lot just from your own observation.

 

The Questions You Should Ask Yourself

Here are a few things to consider when selecting a vet in your area:

• Is the location convenient and easily accessible?
• Is the facility sufficiently staffed? Did the staff members seem kind, caring, calm, and competent during your first encounter?
• Are appointments required?
• What kinds of emergency services are available?
• Is the facility clean, odor-free, and well organized?
• Do the veterinarians seem to show special interest toward your dog?
• Are the vet fees affordable and within your budget?
• Are there licensed veterinary technicians on staff?
• What is the protocol for pain management?
• How are overnight patients monitored?
• Do you feel comfortable with trusting your pet with this vet?
• Do you feel as if your dog’s health is their main priority?

 

It’s crucial that you leave your pet with someone you can genuinely trust and makes you feel comfortable.

 

Before you make your ultimate decision, make sure that your veterinarian meets your needs and expectations- as well as your furry friend’s.