When should I look for a veterinarian?
If you are thinking about getting a dog, it is better to look for a veterinarian before you actually acquire a 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/finding your new dog.

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. Ask your current veterinarian for a recommendation. Be sure to transfer medical history from your previous veterinarian to your new veterinarian.

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.

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?