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How to choose the right vet for your dog

2 mins to read


The right vet, as well as the right wellness partner, is crucial in keeping your dog happy and healthy.  This is especially true if you have a dog with a health condition such as dog arthritis, a dog skin condition, pancreatitis, or a problem with dog behaviour.


“Every vet is different, just like every human GP you will meet,” says vet Dr Sarah Howard, Head Vet for PAW by Blackmores.


“If your pet has a condition that needs a little extra attention, finding a vet with a passion for their needs will help both you and your pet.” 
Ideally your veterinary team, which may include a vet, a vet tech and a vet nurse, should be able to look after routine checks, provide preventative care and handle emergencies if they arise. 

 

So, before you commit to a vet for your canine companion, here’s what you should ask yourself, as well as ask potential vets.

 

1. How far away is your vet in an emergency?

Ideally you will be able to find a vet close to home that you feel you have a good rapport with. If your dog has an accident, or needs immediate care for dog gastro, for example, you really don’t want to be driving a long way to get professional help. In fact, in an emergency, close proximity to your vet could save your pet’s life. Talk to other dog owners in your area about their experience with local vets to get some recommendations. 

 

2. Does your vet offer more holistic care?

"Some vets practice more holistically which you can find at holistic clinics or sometimes in mainstream GP vet clinics,” says Dr Sarah.
They may ask you about your pet’s diet, especially in the case of conditions such as pancreatitis in dogs, or dog skin conditions, and they may talk to you about probiotics for dogs and how they can be useful to gut health and immune function.


Some vets may even be interested in the emotional aspects of your pet, something that can be particularly helpful for those with an anxious dog. 
Other more mainstream vets may focus on blood tests, or clinical symptoms, rather than taking a whole dog or holistic approach and, again, this may be suitable for you and your dog depending on your expectations of healthcare. 

 

3. Does your vet have a natural affinity to small or large dogs?

Vets are humans too and a bad experience with an aggressive dog can make them less fond of that breed. At the same time, some vets advertise that they cater for larger animals including large dogs, while some have a passion for toy breeds.This may be related to health conditions. For example, they may have had extensive experience in dealing with hip dysplasia in dogs such as Labradors or German Shepherds.

On the other hand, they may have treated a lot of small purebreds, such as West Highland White Terriers, who are prone to dog skin conditions. Some veterinarians choose to be specialists, such as ophthalmologists, oncologists, dermatologists, orthopaedic surgeons and so on. Even if they’re not, they may have a special interest in certain areas such as dog skin conditions, says Dr Sarah.  

4. What type of regular care or health advice does your vet offer?

Owning and caring for a dog can be challenging, especially in the puppy or senior years, while managing a dog skin condition, dog arthritis or pancreatitis in dogs can be complex and, at times, overwhelming. You want a vet who listens to your concerns, and who is interested in providing your dog with the best preventative care including ensuring they have a healthy diet, enough exercise and play time, and access to supplements that support their health.  Your vet should also be able to monitor your pet’s condition and, if necessary, vary their health plan. 

5. What other services does your vet offer?

Most quality veterinary practices will have equipment such as X-ray machines, blood pressure monitoring systems or IV infusion pumps. These may be necessary for screening as well as emergency care.

If your vet offers overnight care, ask whether they have someone on duty checking on in-patients and what their emergency procedures involve.
Your vet may also offer access to pet grooming services, a pet naturopath, an orthopaedic surgeon for pets and even a pet physiotherapist. 

6. Do you trust your vet?

“So, you’ve chosen your vet, but do you have absolute faith in them? “ asks Dr Sarah. “After all they’re taking care of your pet. Finding a vet you trust and get along well with is key to a good pet parent-vet relationship.” Make sure your vet is accredited through a state board and don’t be afraid to ask them about their qualifications. They may also be members of the professional association AVA (Australian Veterinary Association).

 


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