Article Title: Choosing A Veterinarian
Author: Miss Debra Rae
So you've moved to a new area or you have a furry family member
addition and you need a Veterinarian. You want to choose your
Veterinarian like you would a family physician. Call and/or
visit a few clinics, ask a lot of questions, get a feel for the
place and then make a decision. A great Veterinarian is an
exceptional animal doctor and has terrific people skills. You
want a Vet who listens to you, is caring, understands your dog's
needs and has extensive animal medical training and knowledge.
To help find a great veterinarian here's a few tips:
When you see a well cared for dog on a walk, at the beach or at
a dog park, ask their human who is the family Vet. Ask friends,
neighbors & coworkers. Call your local animal shelter, Humane
Society, or PAWS and get the who's who in your town. These
dedicated people see it all.
When you think you've found your Vet, visit the facility and
ask yourself the following questions:
Is it clean, comfortable and well organized?
Are appointments required?
How many veterinarians are on staff?
Are there veterinary technicians?
Are dog and cat kennels in separate areas?
Is the staff caring, calm, competent, & courteous?
Do the Veterinarians have special interests like geriatrics,
nutrition, or behavior?
Do the charges for services fit your budget?
Are discounts for seniors, military or multi-pet households
available?
Are X-rays, ultrasound, blood work, EKG, and other diagnostics
in-house or sent out?
What emergency services are available?
Do I like the location?
The answers to these questions will determine if this is the
Veterinarian for you and your K9 family member. If you're still
not satisfied, visit another clinic and another until you find
the place that suits you and your dog's needs.
Once you've chosen your Veterinarian, take your dog in at least
once a year for an annual examination. Some dogs really dislike
this part of their life, but who enjoys getting poked and
prodded? This minimum annual exam is to keep your dog updated on
all their vaccines, check their heart, teeth, lungs, and test
for worms. Make the appointment and spend the money. Your dog's
worth it.
The typical minimum annual vaccines are the DHLPP and Rabies
(some areas allow 2-3 years between Rabies vaccines). This combo
annual vaccine includes:
Distemper-This disease affects a wide range of organs.
Hepatitis-This targets the liver.
Leptosporosis-
Parvovirus-This one goes for the intestines.
Para influenza-This affects the nasal passages, trachea &
bronchi.
There are also additional vaccines available for such nasty
things as Giardia, Canine cough and Rattlesnake bites. Consult
with your Veterinarian to be certain your dog is properly
vaccinated based on your dog's age, health and your geographical
area. An annual fecal exam is recommended even if your dog is
treated monthly with "Heartgard" and "Advantix" as they can
still get other types of parasites.
Dogs rely on their human to care for them in the best possible
way by keeping them happy and healthy. Do a good job. The
rewards are priceless.
About The Author: Miss Rae writes continually about animals,
their needs & how they make us better people. Hop on over for
dog training, nutrition & more at
http://www.goodpoop
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