Finding the right Veterinarian to take care of all your pet’s health needs is an essential part of being a pet owner. They need to be someone who listens and cares about your concerns as well as someone who you can trust. Whether you are a first-time pet owner or recently relocated, there are a few factors you want to consider prior to settling on a Veterinarian.
Credentials
When choosing the right Veterinarian, the first and most important thing you want to inquire about is credentials. You can check with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) which make their evaluations in areas of the facility, patient care, equipment, and staff.
Ask for recommendations from family and friends. Also, if they had any bad experiences, have them share these with you as well.
Location
How important is a convenience in regard to location in your search for a Veterinarian? While doing an internet search, be sure it is localized to find one close to your home. Once identifying a few, take a test trip yourself. Was the commute reasonable for routine appointments or emergencies? Was the trip bumpy the entire way? Keep in mind, you will have a nervous pet riding along to these appointments, and bumpy roads are not something they should associate with a Veterinarian visit.
The Visit
Schedule an appointment without your pet to visit the office as well as speak with the Veterinarian. One thing to keep in mind prior to making an appointment, all vets do not see all animals. The majority are trained in the medical needs of dogs and cats, but others may not specialize with some animals such as reptiles, birds, or ferrets. Be sure to ask which animals they see at that Veterinarian hospital. Some things to consider while visiting:
* Office Hours: Are the normal hours reasonable and work with your schedule? For non-emergency appointments, how long would the average wait time be?
* Hospital Staff: Are you comfortable with allowing the staff to handle your pet?
* Payments: Do they accept pet insurance? What payment methods are accepted?
* Services: What services do they offer your pet?
Never be afraid to ask some hard questions before making your final Veterinarian decision.
For more information, contact Gambrills Veterinary Center, or call them at 410-721-0001. You can connect with them on Facebook for more updates.
