This week we are so excited to have our partner, Vetted PetCare, stop by to provide you with some awesome advice on choosing a veterinarian for new and existing pet parents.
From Vetted:
It is important to do your research in order to select the best doctor for your needs. However, for new pet parents, it can be difficult and a little overwhelming to find the information you need to make an informed choice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, research, to determine a good fit for you. When choosing a doctor, avoid making these 5 mistakes:
1) Cost: Expensive prices equates high quality.
It’s very easy to be impressed with a fancy lobby, astronomical prices, and think that you are choosing the best route for your furry friend. A common misconception is that these facilities are offering something different, than a smaller, more neighborhood focused practice. Both practices use the same laboratory equipment, run the same tests, and apart from specialty practice, employ equally qualified veterinarians and technicians. The difference in cost is not in service, it’s the nice lobby, free coffee, and matching uniforms for the staff.
2) Ignoring recommendations
The best place to start when looking for a veterinarian is to ask your referrals from your friends and family. Also consulting review sites like, Yelp, are a great source to locate a qualified vet.
3) Glossing over credentials.
It’s often assumed that the vet of your choice is qualified to see all your pets, and take care of any disease that may pop up during their lifespan. Veterinary medicine is peppered with specialists, and holistic professionals that may be better suited to answering specific, medical related questions about certain illnesses and treatment.
4) Not enough research
It’s important to research the facility and doctor you are seeing. How long have they been in practice? Do they offer any specialty services? Feel free to contact facilities and ask questions. A caring practice will welcome any inquiry.
5) Settling
This last option in our least favorite. Remember that choosing a vet is not a lifetime commitment. It’s important to ask yourself these questions after your initial visit: Did I feel comfortable? Were all my questions answered? Did I feel like she/he spent enough time with me and my pet?
For more information on choosing a vet, contact Vetted PetCare or visit them at Wellness Wednesdays at Fitdog.