Choosing a Good Veterinarian

How do you know which vet is best?

By Beth Bates

I am in the process of finding a new veterinarian. As you know, I've got four dogs and vet visits can be pricey, so I want to be sure that my dogs are getting the best care possible. But how do you know whether one vet is better than another?

Since I work within the pet community, I get a lot of word-of mouth information about vets and health care with a little gossip mixed in. And I'm finding that it's almost more difficult to choose when you are getting so much information. So, here are some steps to help you through the process:

• Compile a list of vets near you: There are a myriad of resources out there to help you locate vets. Try the yellow pages. Talk to your friends and neighbors. There are several online resources like LocalVets.com and VetWebDirectory.net. Narrow down your list so you can do your research effectively.
• Do some research: Talk to friends and colleagues who have used each vet. Contact the American Veterinary Medical Association and ask about any vets that might be in question.
• Ask to visit the facility and talk to the doctors: Any vet worth their salt would welcome a visit and consultation from a potential client. Is the facility clean? Is it noisy or do the animals seem quiet and calm? Is the staff knowledgeable and friendly? Do you feel like you're getting personal attention or are you just a number?
• How does the vet handle after hours care?: Do they have or work with a 24-hour emergency clinic? This may seem unimportant now, but should you need emergency care for your pet - it's VERY important.
• Trust your gut: If you have a pet, you know how you want them to be cared for. If you have a bad feeling about a particular practice, keep looking. There are lots of vets out there and you will eventually find the right doctor for you and your pet.

There are also several online resources for pet health care information. Although these services do not take the place of a vet visit, they can sometimes help you find answers to medical questions. A few of the most interesting are:

• WebVet.com - This is a new, growing site, but is quickly becoming one of my favorites.
• PetMD.com - Also a new site, it offers good information and helpful tips.
• PetWave.com - Comprehensive site with loads of pet health information.

More online resources about finding a vet: About.com, Humane Society of the Unites States, Best Friends Animal Society and Pets911.