How to choose the right veterinarian

Did your family recently adopt a new cat or dog? Perhaps you just moved to a new neighbourhood with your pet? If so, congratulations!  

Now, you’ll need to gather your companion’s medical records and find a veterinarian near your home. While it might be tempting to search on the internet for the veterinarian nearest you, location isn't the only thing that matters.  

Here is what you should consider when choosing a veterinarian: 

Relationship 

A good relationship with the veterinary clinic staff is essential. The vet and hospital staff need to be professionals that you trust and are comfortable communicating with.  

When speaking with customer service representatives, you shouldn't feel rushed. Hospital team members should actively listen to your concerns and take the time to answer your questions. 

Accessibility 

When selecting a veterinarian, look for one close to your home. In the case of an emergency, you will want to arrive in under 30 minutes. 

When calculating the travel time, consider your form of transit, too. If you don't drive, select a veterinarian that is easily accessible by public transit. 

It’s also important to consider the clinic’s office hours. If weekends and evenings are best for you, you'll want to confirm they are available when you need them. 

When contacting local vets, enquire about what happens if there is an emergency when the clinic is closed. Is an emergency service available to help patients after hours? Is that clinic or hospital accessible and convenient for you to visit? 

Amenities 

Not all veterinary clinics offer the same services, so consider what is essential for you. For example, are you looking for a vet that can make house calls? Perhaps you need a clinic specializing in alternative medicine? Would you prefer a clinic that offers separate cat and dog facilities?  

While it might be tempting to look for the best prices, the prices of “quotable” services can be misleading, and not representative of the cost of all of the care that your pet may someday need. Instead, you'll want to find a veterinarian that you trust and who offers the amenities you need. 

There is also the size to consider; a small clinic might feel more intimate. In contrast, a larger hospital may offer a larger variety of more specialized services. To make the best choice, you'll need to examine the amenities of several locations to find the one that offers what you need. 

Reputation 

Don't be afraid to look for help in your search. Ask your nearby friends and family or your neighbours for their recommendations on vets. 

While it might be tempting to base your decision only on online reviews, a testimonial from someone you know is best. Online reviews, especially at locations that provide emergency care, can be overly negative as these clinics have to deliver bad news more often. 

If you don't know anyone in the area with pets, ask a local pet shelter for their opinion. 

We’re here to help 

It is important to care for your pet’s health, and that begins with picking the right vet. CAA’s Pet Insurance provider, Pets Plus Us, can help take a lot of stress out of the equation so you and your vet can focus on your pet’s health. Plus, CAA Members save 13.5%, and non-Members save 9%. 

Get a quote online or call 1-833-323-2456.