Some people see vets as interchangeable. They’re happy to see whomever is working the day of their appointment, and trust the advice and care they receive. Others prefer to form a relationship with a specific vet, and have continuity of care. 

Whether you’re considering changing the practice you’ve been dealing with for years, moving neighbourhoods, cities or even countries, or have just adopted your first pet, these 8 points should help no matter the circumstances.

1) How much does bedside manner count, or are you just happy to have the experience? You can have both!!

2) Would you move heaven and earth and spend as much as it takes to cure your pet, or are heroic measures not your style? This is an important consideration when choosing a vet, because some give you attitude if you decline further treatment and prefer to let your dog go in peace.  

I am comfortable saying this, because I’ve experienced that attitude, more than once.

3) Do you ask lots of questions, or just do as suggested? Not everyone likes to be what they perceive as being “second guessed.”

4) Small 1 or 2 vet clinic, or a practice that’s part of a huge conglomerate? There are pros and cons to both, but for me, it’s most important to find a vet I trust and get on with, no matter what practice they’re a part of. BTW, it can affect the price of treatments.

5) How far are you willing or able to travel, and do they have office hours convenient for you?

6) Do you need a practice with boarding facilities, or do you have pet sitters to care for your dog?

7) Some practices offer alternative medicine and a more holistic approach. Is that important for you?

8) What is their attitude towards senior dogs? You wouldn’t imagine this would be an issue but sadly it is. I’ve seen many posts in my FB group, from senior dog parents who have had terrible experiences from vets who obviously didn’t care much for treating old dogs.

I had a very unsettling experience a few years ago with my heart dog Red, and keep in mind I have a fantastic vet!

My vet was away for a couple of weeks, so naturally that’s when Red wasn’t feeling well and needed to see him!! She was older and on various medications, but hardly ready to leave. I took her to see another vet at the practice and had them put her on fluids, which I knew she needed based on experience. While she was in the back, the vet took me into one of the rooms, brought in a vet nurse and started to talk about how old she was, and I should consider euthanasia.

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing!!

I was not in denial, nor would I ever dream of letting Red suffer just so she could stay with me.

I demanded he return Red to me immediately, but he kept talking. I literally threatened to call the police if he didn’t give me my dog, so he did. I then called a previous vet practice I used before I moved and I took her there.

When my vet returned I told him what had happened, and needless to say he was shocked. He did a great job of caring for Red and I trusted him completely (something I don’t easily say!), and he didn’t believe she was at that stage.

That other vet’s attitude towards seniors was pretty clear, hence the need to include this as an issue for you to consider.

What’s Your Next Step

Once you’ve determined the important factors and have a list of vets you’re considering, call and ask if you can schedule a short visit to see the practice, and meet the vet.

Don’t be shy to have a look around, take note of waiting area and exam room cleanliness, and pay attention to how the staff at the front desk speak to clients both in person, and on the phone. I found the most incredible vet (not my current one, another amazing vet!), simply by speaking to one of the staff at a practice I was considering.

 8 Things to Consider When Choosing a Vet – Conclusion

I rely so much on my vet to help me care for the furry members of my family. I hope these points have helped you become clearer on what’s important to you. 

Do you have “deal breakers” when it comes to the vet you trust? What criteria have you used to find the right one? Your experiences will help others caring for senior dogs, so anything you would like to share, please write it in the comment section below.

 

I’m excited to announce my new Senior Dog Care Support Service.

I offer 1:1 support on everything from health & wellness advice and training tips, to preparing to say goodbye and grief counselling. You can find details on all the packages I offer by visiting the Senior Dog Care Support Service page. If you have any questions or would like to book your FREE 15 minute chat, please email hpearson141@gmail.com