What questions should i ask when choosing a vet?

Question

I am getting a small-breed dog(pomeranian mix). I need to know what tests/procedures a dog needs yearly and/or monthly to help me choose a vet office. The dog will already be spayed/neutered.

Answer 1

You might want to just check their prices for routine things such as vaccination. Remember that if their service is very cheap it might not be the best on offer! If you don't have friends who can recommend a vet to you, ring around to ask for prices and go for the middle range. It would also be good to find out which vets do emergency services 24/7 in your area - this is something that's useful to know in advance, before an emergency occurs!

Dogs need to visit the vet yearly for booster vaccination and general health check. They also need monthly flea treatment and worming every three months, so ask what flea treatments they stock - Frontline, Revolution and Advantage are a good sign!

Chalice

Answer 2

You might want to make sure which vet deals with
small breeds and which deals with medium to large dogs.
(I had a vet who was for medium to large breed dogs).
Of course it was a busy vet office so maybe they had to
deal with cases that way. Sometimes they can set up shot
appointments ahead of time just like a doctors office and
they call you a week or two in advance to remind you when
your pet needs a shot or checkup. Also a good thing to ask
for emergency number(s).

Answer 3

I asked around for who other people used.

I don't know where you live but, I am in a very rural aria.

It is important to me to know the vet I use will be available in case of emergency. So many vets refer you to animal clinics and emergency treatment centers after hours.

I also wanted to know a little about him not only as a Doctor but, as a person.

I have a wonderful vet. He has probably 20 years of experience and has always been there for my pets.

Good luck with your new little one. I hope this helped.

Answer 4

Vets get schooled and pass nearly the same level of State boards as a human doctor. I doubt your needs are beyond any certified vet.

Answer 5

Hello..my suggestion is ask your friends, neighbors who have pets, especially the little dogs - who're often treated like royalty for the best vet...Take Care :)

Answer 6

Where to Look for a Veterinarian

Ask a Friend
Animal-owning friends are generally a good source of information. Ask them why they chose their veterinarian. If you believe their expectations of service are similar to yours, you may want to schedule a visit to the facility.

Breed Clubs
If you have a purebred dog or cat, area breed clubs can be a good source of information. They have often established a strong relationship with a practice that is very familiar with the potential health-related problems for your particular breed.

Local Directories/Internet
Turn to the business pages of a phone book or yellow pages for contact information on local veterinarians. Also check the Internet for listings of veterinary association Web sites - many state or local veterinary medical associations maintain lists of area practices.

Your Current Veterinarian
If you are relocating to another city or state, ask your current veterinarian if he or she can recommend a practice where you will be living. Many times they have colleagues in other towns whose practice policies and services are similar to theirs. Your current veterinarian should also give you copies of your pet's medical records to take to the new practice to ensure your pet's medical history is available to the new staff.

When to Look for a Veterinarian

It is a good idea to start thinking about selecting a veterinarian before acquiring a new pet. In fact, a veterinarian can assist you in selecting a pet that complements your personality, work schedule, and home life.

If you have recently moved to a new area, locate a veterinarian before your pet actually needs one. Don't wait until your pet becomes ill or requires emergency care. It is best to have secured a doctor's name and number and become acquainted with the practice and staff in advance of such situations. Consider scheduling an initial visit soon after arriving at your new home. Your veterinarian will suggest ways to help your pet become accustomed to its unfamiliar environment.

Pay a Visit

When deciding on a veterinary practice, first schedule a visit with the veterinarian to discuss your pet and ask questions about fees and services. You may want to visit several practices before making a final selection.

Tips to Keep in Mind When Visiting a Veterinary Practice

Office Hours

What are the regular hours?
Are they compatible with your schedule?
Will they accept e-mails or appointments electronically?
Who covers the practice when the doctor is unavailable?
What is the average wait time for making a non-emergency appointment?
Professional Staff

How are telephone calls handled?
Can you request an appointment with a specific veterinarian?
Does the staff dress and act professionally?
Do you feel comfortable talking with the doctor? The technician?
Fees and Payment

What methods of payment are accepted?
Does the hospital treat patients of clients that have pet insurance?
Services

What is the range of medical services that the practice provides?
Does the hospital have educational materials for pet-owners on a variety of topics?
Are there non-medical services such as boarding, grooming, and training classes?
If necessary, does the veterinarian have a network of specialists for referrals?
Emergency Care

How are emergency calls handled during regular office hours and after office hours?
Is there an emergency facility in your area should you need it?
Facility

Is the building environment clean and orderly?
Are there any unpleasant odors?
Can you take a tour of the non-public areas?
Professional Affiliations

Are the doctors members of a professional veterinary association such as the American Veterinary Medical Association or a state or local veterinary association?
What is the hospital policy regarding continuing education for the professional staff?
Your Responsibility As a Pet Owner

In order for your veterinarian to maintain your pet's good health, it is important for you to schedule regular checkups and practice preventive care at home. At each appointment, be sure to communicate clearly your pet's behavior and habits. Since many signs of illness are subtle, even minor changes in your pet's behavior can give your doctor valuable information on what might become a serious health issue.

Remember that veterinarians care as much about you as an owner as they do about your pets. They are available to give you the information and resources you need to take the best possible care of your animals. By taking the time to select the veterinarian that you feel confident can provide for your needs as an owner and the medical needs of your pet, you will establish a rewarding partnership.

From the AVMA website

I think this is what you are looking for.
Good luck.

Denise Leo
dochlaggie pomeranians
http://www.pomeranian.com.au

Answer 7

The best thing to do, actually, is to ask people that you trust what vet they use for their animals.

Answer 8

You should ask questions like how good is there care, how long have they been in business, i can i be sure that my animal will be in good care.