When you are looking for a doctor for yourself, your children, or your family, there are many things that you take into consideration. One of your concerns may be the location -is the hospital or office located nearby? Secondly, you are probably wondering about insurance. Will your insurance cover the services that this doctor provides for you, and if so, how much will be your responsibility?
However, your number one concern when choosing a doctor should be their qualifications. Do they come highly recommended? Will they provide quality treatment? These same questions should be kept in mind when you are selecting a veterinary clinic for your pet. It may not seem as important as choosing your doctor, but in fact, it could at some point be the difference between life and death for your furry friend. So take the time to select a veterinary clinic that you feel will provide the best service for your pet.
Some Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian
When you are visiting a veterinary clinic, there are some questions that you should be sure to ask your veterinarian in order to get a feel for how the clinic operates. Make sure to inquire about office hours. This important information could help you to determine when your check up appointments would typically be, and if the hours of the veterinary clinic are convenient for you. Ask what the regular office hours are and determine if they are well-suited to your own schedule.
Also make sure to ask who runs the practice when the regular doctor is on vacation or not available. The second most important question to ask is regarding fees and payments. Ask the veterinary clinic what methods of payment they accept, and when the payments are expected to be made.
It is important to also evaluate the facilities and procedures of the veterinary clinic you visit with your own eyes. You should determine whether or not you feel comfortable with the veterinarian, and you should also find out whether or not you can request specific veterinarians or not. Look around the office and facilities. Is the setting orderly and clean? Are there any undesirable smells or odors? Is the office in total chaos?
You Are the Pet Parent
As a veterinarian, the vet has the responsibility to honor the oath that he has taken which states that I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics. However, you also have a responsibility as a pet owner to discuss all concerns and observations with the veterinarian. Make sure that at any appointment at your veterinary clinic, you are honestly communicating with the vet about symptoms and any behavioral changes.