Choosing The Right Vet For Your Pet

September 4, 2013

How to Choose the Best Vet

5 TIPS ON CHOOSING THE RIGHT…
  1. Solicit Recommendations.
  2. Schedule Office Visit At Local Area Veterinary Hospitals Or Clinics.
  3. Check Credentials.
  4. Prepare A List Of Questions For The Vet And Staff.
  5. Check Office Hours, Specialties and Emergency Availability.

IN CASE OF A EMERGENCY
TIPS  ON PREPARING YOUR PET(S)

  • Make sure that your pet wears a well-fitting collar with an ID tag that has up-to-date contact information.
  • Train your dog! A well-trained, obedient dog is safer, more responsive and happier.Always keep your pet(s) on a leash when outside the house or yard.
  • In order to make traveling with your pet more manageable, be sure that your pet(s) is comfortable in a crate or carrier, even if you don’t use one on a regular basis.
  • Know basic pet first aid such as how to stop bleeding and treat lacerations. Always approach a sick, injured or scared animal slowly and cautiously. Even your own pet can be aggressive when in pain or frightened. More pet first aid info at Red Cross.org.
  • Purchase or assemble a basic pet first aid kit that includes gauze pads, gauze roll/ bandages, thermometer, tweezers, hydrogen peroxide, antibiotic ointment, Q-tips, instant cold pack and rags or rubber tubing for a tourniquet.
  • Make sure that you have a pet emergency supply kit that includes an ample supply of food and water, blankets, a spare leash and collar, food bowls, garbage bags and any needed medication and a recent photo of your pet. See full pet emergency supply kit checklist.
  • Remain as calm as possible during stressful or emergency situations – your pet is easily influenced by your behavior and will mirror your stress or panic.

  • Be aware of the dangers of common household items – from poisons and pesticides to chocolate and certain houseplants – and keep them away from your pet(s).
  • Be aware that extreme temperatures have drastic effects on pets.
  •  Heat exhaustion is often caused by leaving pets in parked cars or over-exercising pets during hot weather.
  • To cool off an overheated pet, offer plenty of water, wet his or her body and paws with cool water… 
  1. WHO…Chose Your Vet And Reason?
  2. WHAT…What Are The Specialties Provided By Your Vet?
  3. WHEN…Should Heart Worm Medicine Be Given?
  4. WHERE…In An Emergency Or Stressful Situation Handle Your Pet?
  5. WHY…Are Yearly Vaccinations Important?
  6. HOW…Often Do You Visit Your Vet?