Other than yourself, a veterinarian plays an important role for your dog’s well-being. The veterinarian should not be mere a medical expert. He/she should be your dog’s friend as well – someone your dog can trust and be comfortable with. Take time and look carefully to select the right veterinarian to fit you and your dog’s needs. Consider the following when you are looking for a veterinarian.

When should I look for a veterinarian?
If you have a dog and just happened to move to a new area, begin searching for a new veterinarian immediately. Do not wait until your dog actually needs one. Be sure to transfer medical history from your previous veterinarian to your new veterinarian.

If you are thinking about getting a dog, it is better to look for a veterinarian before you actually acquire the dog, so that you will have more time for your new dog later. Moreover, the veterinarian may be able to give you advice on selecting a new dog.

How do I find the right veterinarian?
One of the easiest and most trustworthy ways to find the right veterinarian is to ask people who are responsible pet care givers; your friends, family members, neighbors, local humane society workers, groomers, breeders, etc. Ask them specific reasons why they recommend that particular veterinarian to see if their recommendations meet what you expect from the veterinarian.

You may also use the internet to look up veterinarians. Use credible sources such as national or state based veterinary medical association web sites.

If you are moving to a new area, ask your current veterinarian for a recommendation. Be sure to also ask for a copy of your dog’s medical files.

You may want to select several veterinarians. Once you’ve narrowed your selection, visit with each veterinarian to make sure what he/she offers meet your expectation. While you are visiting, consider asking/checking following:

• Location: Is the location convenient to you? It is close enough to get to quickly in case of an emergency?
• Hours: Does hours fit your schedule?
• Facility: Is it clean and well-organized? Do you notice unpleasant odors?
• Staff: How many veterinarians are in the practice? Who covers the practice when your veterinarian is not available? Are technicians and assistants friendly, caring, courteous, etc…? Do they dress and act professionally?
• Fees: Are fees in your budget? What method of payment do they accept? If you have pet health insurance, do they take it?
• Services: What is the range of services? Do they provide non-medical services you may want to use (such as boarding and grooming)? Do they have an emergency service?

Tips on building a good relationship with your veterinarian.
Building a good relationship with your veterinarian is important. You can start this by being a responsible dog owner. Scheduling regular checkups help both you and your veterinarian to maintain your dog’s well-being. If you see a sign of illness, do not wait. Take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. It is frustrating for the veterinarian to see your animal suffer for something that could have been cured only if you took your dog sooner.

Also be a good client to build a good relationship with your veterinarian. Always be on time for an appointment. If you cannot make it to the appointment, call and cancel/reschedule it. At the facility, your dog should be on leash. Always supervise your dog around other animals and their owners. During an appointment, do not hesitate to ask questions if you are unsure about what the veterinarian is talking about. Take notes or ask him/her to write down the information if you are unable to remember. Be sure you have enough money to pay for the service. Full payment is usually required when the service is rendered.