Choosing a Vet

December 27, 2009 by Janet · Leave a Comment
Filed under: Puppy Stuff 

Veterinarians are doctors for animals.  When puppy joins the family he needs to find a doctor, too.    A vet will care for your pet throughout his life.  He will be the second line of defense against disease and illness.  In an effort to find the right vet, ask questions.  Learn how to find the veterinarian that will care for your new puppy the best.

Interviewing veterinarians is okay.  They expect potential clients to check them out.  You don’t have to take your spy kit with you, but be thorough in your investigation.

Ask friends and family for recommendations.  When you choose a vet, remember to call ahead to schedule an appointment for a walking tour.  Take your list of questions with you.

The first person you will meet is the receptionist.  Did they let you stand there for five minutes or more before acknowledging your presence or did they smile and offer to help immediately?  A pleasant staff is a good sign.

During the tour, check out the facility.  Is there a pervasive smell of animals or do you smell cleaner?  It’s normal for a vet’s office to smell like animals, but it shouldn’t be so overpowering that you want to run for the nearest oxygen mask.  Exam rooms should be cleaned between patients and at the end of the day.

Ask the veterinarian about the policies of the facility.  Is there a vet always on call in case of emergencies?  Do they offer boarding for pets?  How much are the fees for routine care?  Don’t worry about asking too many questions.  Puppy is important to you so do what you must for him.  

Once you decide on a vet, it is time for puppy’s first visit.  Bring him on a leash.  Puppy can’t be allowed to roam free around the waiting room inciting a riot. 

Puppy may be a bit out of sorts at first, but be patient with him.  Just like with his training, resist the urge to become excited around him.  If you stay calm at the vet’s office, puppy will learn to do the same.  Stay with him throughout the visit so he knows that you have not abandoned him.  Going to the vet is a part of life for puppy.  Making him comfortable here is necessary so he won’t become anxious when it’s time for his checkups.

Choose a vet before you need him.  Waiting until an emergency arises is too late.  Keep your puppy safe from day one. 

Originally posted 2008-12-08 21:38:45. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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