When Should I Find a Vet?

It’s a good idea to find a veterinarian before your pet shows any signs of illness. Whether you’ve recently adopted from a shelter or purchased from a breeder, you’ll want to schedule a wellness checkup early on. This will allow your new veterinarian to get to know your pet and establish a baseline for their health.

If you’ve just moved to a new area or your current vet is retiring, don’t wait until there’s an emergency to search for a new veterinarian. It’s always easier to take your time selecting the right vet when your pet is healthy, rather than during a stressful situation. Look for local veterinarians who are accepting new appointments, so you have a trusted clinic to call in case of an emergency.

Find Out Whether the Practice’s Treatment Philosophies Match Yours

When choosing a veterinary practice, it’s important to find out whether the office’s treatment methodologies align with your values. For example, if you prefer holistic or alternative treatments, ask if the veterinarian offers such options. If you’re looking for more conventional care, be sure that the practice offers comprehensive services like wellness exams, spay or neuter surgeries, and dental care.

It’s also helpful to observe whether the office is clean, well-organized, and welcoming to both you and your pet. A compassionate, calm environment will help ensure your pet feels comfortable during visits. Your vet should prioritize transparency and explain treatment options clearly so that you can make informed decisions about your pet’s health.

Check on Professional Accreditations and Experience

Experience matters when it comes to choosing the best vet for your pet. Look for veterinary practices that are accredited by professional organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). These accreditations signal that the veterinary hospital adheres to high standards of care.

Additionally, ask about the experience and certifications of the veterinarians on staff. A skilled veterinarian will have the training and knowledge to handle everything from routine checkups to emergency care. If you’re concerned about specific conditions, such as behavioral issues or certain medical conditions, make sure the clinic has experience in these areas.

Comprehensive Care, One Convenient Location

When you’re searching for the best care for your pet, convenience is key. Ideally, you’ll want to find a veterinary hospital that offers comprehensive services at one location. From wellness exams and vaccinations to radiology and emergency care, a full-service animal hospital will provide all the veterinary care your pet needs without having to visit multiple clinics.

Having all services in one place not only saves time but also ensures continuity of care. Your pet’s medical history will be easily accessible, and the veterinary team will be familiar with their needs. This holistic approach leads to better care and fewer stresses for both you and your pet.

Questions to Ask a Veterinarian

Before choosing a veterinarian, it’s important to ask the right questions. Some of the questions to consider include:

• What are your payment options? Does the clinic offer payment plans or accept pet insurance?
• What emergency care services do you provide? Are there after-hours options or a 24-hour emergency line?
• What is the vet’s approach to preventative care, such as flea and tick prevention, dental care, and wellness exams?

These questions will help you gauge whether the veterinarian’s office is a good fit for your pet’s needs. The best veterinarians will answer these questions openly, reflecting transparency and a love for animals.

Get Recommendations

Sometimes the best way to find a new veterinarian is by asking around. Speak to other pet owners in your area, your pet’s groomer or trainer, or even your local shelter. 

Online reviews can be another helpful tool, but remember to consider the overall pattern of feedback rather than focusing on one-off comments. You’ll get a clearer picture of whether the veterinarian is compassionate, trustworthy, and able to provide the best care for your cat or dog.

Visit Us

At Lakeside Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you find the best care for your pet. Our team of experienced, compassionate veterinarians is dedicated to providing the highest level of veterinary care in a welcoming environment. From routine checkups and wellness exams to emergency care and advanced diagnostics, we offer comprehensive services to meet your pet’s needs in one convenient location.

We’re currently accepting new appointments and would love to meet you and your furry friend. Call today to request an appointment and see why Lakeside is the best veterinary choice for your pet’s health and happiness.