How should you choose a veterinarian?

·  Recommendations from friends, local humane societies, shelters
·  Clean, well-lit, odor-free premises
·  Evidence the veterinarian is continually updating his knowledge
·  Some clinics are certified by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
·  Veterinarian and staff are polite, efficient, and kind
·  Emergency or after-hours service is available, either at this facility or another
·  You and your pet should feel a rapport with the doctor, and all your questions
 should be answered in a caring, thoughtful manner

According to Stuart W. Turner, DVM, writing for the Veterinary Information Network, Inc. on AOL's Pet Care Forum:

By definition a veterinary "clinic" has a set number of hours in which it is staffed or open and does not provide 24 hour care. A "hospital" is open 24 hours and staffed by either a veterinarian or para-professional staff. This is important because the word "hospital" is termed rather loosely and many veterinary facilities call themselves hospitals, yet they do not provide 24 hour care or monitoring for hospitalized pets. If your pet is to be "hospitalized" overnight, ask who will observe your pet and the specific hours they will be there. It is not uncommon for a pet to remain unobserved for as much as 14 hours. Ask also about emergency or critical care facilities where your pet may be transferred if necessary.

·  If a procedure is recommended, the veterinarian should give you a range of options, if possible.

·  Ask about billing procedures:
-  Is full payment expected immediately?
-  Are credit cards accepted?
-  Are prices discussed before the procedure?
-  Will you be charged for an appointment you forgot to cancel?

Select your veterinarian for his or her ability to relate to people as well as to your pet. Veterinarians say cllients who ask more questions are more emotionally involved with their pets and make good owners.