Healthy Pets and Veterinarians
April 15, 2009 by
Filed under Pet Health
Today, pets are living longer, healthier lives thanks to high-quality veterinary care, preventative care, and responsible pet owners monitoring their animals for early signs of illness.
It stands to reason that you should take some time in selecting the veterinarian who will become your pet’s health care provider since your pet may be a member of your family for the next couple of decades. Choosing your pet’s health care provider is as important as choosing your own health care provider. You should use the same care and criteria as selecting your physician or dentist.
Think about what factors are most important to you.
Among them should be location, office hours, payment options and the range of medical services provided. You also need to consider your pet’s possible medical needs in establishing a long-term relationship with your veterinarian. Will he or she provide you with a preventative care program to main your pet’s health.
The veterinarian you select will maintain an ongoing history of your pet keeping health records that detail immunizations, reactions or allergies to medications, and illnesses and surgical procedures your pet may require.
One of the best ways to find a good veterinarian is to ask a friend or neighbor for a referral. Friends who have pets are usually the best sources of information. They’ll be able to tell you why they chose their veterinarian and if you’d benefit from the quality of services and the types of services from their veterinarian.
If you have a non-traditional pet, special interest groups in your area may be a good source of information about veterinarians who have experience with your species of pet.
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. You should ask your current veterinarian to give you copies of your pet’s medical records to take so your new veterinarian will have your pet’s medical history.
When deciding on new veterinary practice, first schedule to discuss your pet and ask questions about fees and services. You may have to visit several practices before making a final selection.
