Choosing a Veterinarian
Shhh say it quietly!

When you dog has a health problem that you can't solve, the natural thing to do is look for a good veterinarian. But where do you start?

Generally, when choosing a veterinarian, we look in the phone book until we come across one close to home. But just like a doctor, you may not be pleased with his "bedside" manner. I've heard people grumble that their animal's veterinarian doesn't handle their dog well or they just didn't like his method. Here are some useful hints in choosing the best veterinarian for your dog.

If you have friends, family or neighbors with animals, ask them for a suggestion. Ask questions about their experiences with the vet. How does the veterinarian handle their dog? Is he gentle? Does he completely get across to the pet owner the condition of the dog being looked after? It's good to select a veterinarian that is revealing about the dog he is examining. A veterinarian not just has to be good with animals, but he has to be people friendly as well.

Don't forget your instincts. After meeting the vet, if you don't feel good about him, don't go back. Even if he has a good name, don't be pressured to go back. What is acceptable for one person, may not be agreeable for you.

Look up the Veterinary Medical Board and see if there have been any complaints again him. You can also check with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). These are vet hospitals that maintain high animal care standards. These vet hospitals fill out an exhaustive explanation of its equipment and services they tender.

Afterwards, an expert inspects the facility to confirm it meets AAHA's standards. The following items are checked: medical records, dentistry, anesthesia, dentistry and surgery.

Set up an appointment to see the veterinarian as well as the staff. How do they get on with customers as well as each other? Have a look round. Look for cleanliness specifically in the kennel area.

If you see unclean kennels, or droppings on the floor, it may mean they do not have sufficient staff to look after the animals. Sanitation is significant due to the spread of diseases amongst animals.

Also, ask the veterinarian if it would be ok to sit in during a treatment of an animal. This way you can see how he handles the animal as well as the pet owner. You can also see if he has a real care for animals or does he just see it as a job?

Any veterinarian in the United States must have graduated from an accredited school. Just like any doctor, he must have a license that should be on display. If you don't see one displayed, ask him about it. Check to make sure it is up to date.

Ask about emergency care. Is it even offered? Accidents can happen to your dog. Is there 24/7 emergency treatment available? Find out if your dog does have to remain overnight, will there be a member of staff staying with him.

If reasonable, get a good veterinarian that is near to home. You don't want to drive an hour away if you have a restless or sick dog in the car.

If you have pet insurance, find out if they allow it? If not, what about credit cards or payment plans? Veterinary bills, especially emergency bills, can be costly.

When you've done your research you should be able to find a veterinarian you can feel happy about and trust with your dog.

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