5 Important Questions to Ask Your Vet

Many owners are reluctant to confront their vet or veterinary clinic when it comes to their pet and their health. Some pet owners feel that it is better to put up with just adequate pet care rather than going through the hassle of finding a new vet or veterinary clinic. However, by asking your vet these five important questions you both will know if you, your vet, and your pet are a good fit.

1. How Well Does Your Vet Manage Their Phone Calls?
Find out the policy of return calls your vet has in place. Will the vet's office call you back within 24 hours during the week? Many pet illnesses can rapidly grow in as little as a day. It is imperative that your vet call you back in a timely manner.

2. Is Your Vet Sympathetic to Your Pet and Family?
Talk with your vet about the office policy concerning hospitalized pets. Will your vet let you or family members visit if your pet is kept overnight? Will your vet allow you and your family to be present if you pet is euthanized? Many owners have a special bond with their pet and if a vet does not respect that bond, you may want to find another.

3. Will Your Vet Make Sure You Can See a Specialist?
Vets who try to do it all could be dangerous to your pet. Just as you may need a specialist, your vet could wrongly diagnose your pet. A vet specialist should handle specialty tests, surgeries, and treatments. Do not let your vet try to do it all, they may not be qualified to do so.

4. Does Your Vet Give You Ample Time?
You need to have a vet that will spend the time discussing with you any complicated diseases your pet may have. Your vet should be asking you questions or your thoughts concerning your pet and their care. You spend more time with your pet than anyone; your vet should be making sure you are in the loop when it comes to their health.

5. How Does Your Vet Respond to the Fear Your Pet May Have?
What pet enjoys the trip to the vet? A nervous or jittery pet will not always hiss or bark when they enter the vet office. Many will cower, freeze, pace, or try to hide when brought in. Watch your vet and see how they react to your pet and their fears. Will your vet accommodate what they are doing to make your pet calmer? You need a vet who will try to get your pet into a happy, comfortable attitude. This makes it easier for the pet and much easier for the owner.