Five questions to ask your new veterinarian

Five questions to ask your new veterinarian
Haley Young
29 Apr
2024

Your dog deserves the best of everything: food, toys, enrichment, and veterinary care. And you deserve to feel comfortable with your veterinary team! How do you trust that you're working with doctors, techs, and staff who care about your pup as much as you do?

Here are five categories of questions to ask new vet clinics to match the right fit for you. (You'll easily find some answers on practice websites and in patient reviews — but don't hesitate to follow up via phone call or email if you're unsure about anything.)

What experience and skills do you have?

You want to make sure your new vet has all the necessary qualifications to provide quality care for your dog.

  • What is your educational background and veterinary training?
  • How many years of experience do you have in veterinary practice?
  • Are you a member of any professional veterinary organizations?
  • What services does your clinic offer? (Routine check-ups, surgeries, emergency care, etc.)
  • Do you have specialists or referral options for specific conditions?

What is your appointment availability and communication like?

Clear communication and accessibility are crucial when working with a new healthcare provider. You want to understand how your vet will keep you informed about your pet's health — and long it might take to address any new concerns!

  • How do you communicate with clients? (Phone, email, text, etc.)
  • What are your office hours?
  • What is your typical communication turnaround time? How long will it usually take you to get back to me?
  • What is your average wait time for an appointment?
  • Is there a specific vet or team member I can contact for updates on my pet's progress?
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What are your typical costs? Do you have financing options?

Understanding the cost of veterinary care at different practices can help you avoid financial surprises. (Wondering if you should get pet insurance? We've got you covered in this article!)

  • What are your fees for routine exams and vaccinations?
  • How much do other common procedures cost?
  • What is your policy on upfront payments or deposits?
  • Do you offer payment plans?
  • Do you accept pet insurance?

How often do you want to see my dog?

Preventive care can be a key part of maintaining your pet's health. It's important you feel aligned with your veterinarian here!

  • What is your philosophy on preventive care?
  • How often should my dog receive vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care?
  • Can you provide recommendations for a customized preventive care plan based on my pet's needs?

Do you provide emergency care? If not, do you have a relationship with someone who does?

Knowing how emergencies are handled ahead of time ensures you're prepared in a worst-case scenario.

  • What should I do in case of a pet emergency after hours?
  • Do you handle emergencies in-house?
  • Are there emergency services you recommend?
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