Dr. Becky Marks
 

"Joan, we are getting a puppy for the children. I am so excited. Do you know any good veterinarians?" Joan does know a good veterinarian. As she describes why she likes her animal doctor she realizes there were several factors that helped her choose this person.
 

If you are searching for a doctor you might want to try these steps:

Test the clinic by calling first. A receptionist is instructed to be helpful and efficient. Is the person willing to take some time to answer your questions? If you have more in depth questions they may have to return your call. Remember a receptionist may have multiple lines.
 

Have you ever walked into a clinic and noticed a horrible smell? Was the place dirty? For most people this is an immediate turn off. It could be odors that develop from lack of sanitation. Granted there may be a sick animal that throws off a bad odor (eg. infected ears, anal glands, abscesses). Overall the clinic you choose should show signs it is maintained constantly. You might want to ask for a tour of the clinic/hospital and boarding area. You will know if this is a place you will want to leave your pet in the future.
 

As you advance to the check-in desk are you greeted by a nice person? Do they greet you? Are they acknowledging you for your appointment? "Thank you Mrs. Jones we will be with you in a few moments." Granted every clinic has their busy times. At those times you may have to wait. Overall you would expect to be helped in a timely manner. Is the staff knowledgeable?
 

Is there a safe place for you and your pet to sit? Can you be comfortable until your appointment begins. What happens if you have an aggressive dog? Is the staff aware of possible interactions? For example they could have you wait outside or in an empty exam room until your appointment begins. These are all factors that can influence you before you meet the doctor. However, these factors represent the type of doctors you will be seeing.
 

As you meet the doctor does he/she introduce themselves. Do they greet your pet? You should be looking for someone who can listen to your concerns. The physical should be complete and any abnormalities discussed with you. As the doctor examines your pet you should start to feel a relationship build. After several visits you would expect to be very comfortable with your doctor. Feel free to ask for an estimate on procedures such as a dental or tumor removal. Building a rapport with your new veterinarian is a two-way street. You should ask questions and let your doctor know what level of care you desire. If you just want a Rabies vaccine you won't get 15 minutes of question and answer time. If you declined an exam don't push the doctor and say "can you just look at this lump..." because just looking at a lump still requires an exam. A physical is required for diagnoses. Unless the schedule is running behind your veterinarian should be happy to do the physical. From the veterinarian's perspective I look forward to the long term relationships. I enjoy watching the puppies grow into adults and eventually become seniors. I will know these pets and their families very well. I will often shed tears when I euthanize these pets. Our staff mourns your loss as well. Remember we love animals.
 

These are some of the things you should ask yourself when you locate the best doctor for your pet. Other factors may include your pet's behavior. For example if a dog has been abused by a man than you might seek a woman veterinarian. If your dog is an unusual breed you might search for a doctor that really knows this breed. We see lots Boston Terriers because we have one. Perhaps convenient hours are important for you if you work odd hours. It is a very personal choice for you and your pet.
 

Dr. Becky Marks 12/6/01