You've done your research and you've selected a vet with the right qualifications for your pet's needs. Now is the perfect time to go and checkout the hospital. Here's a bit about what you should look for during your 'interview' visit.
Choosing the Right Hospital for Your Pet
The best time to choose a new veterinary hospital is before you actually need to visit. Don't wait for an emergency or health condition to emerge to visit your new vet's office. Compile a list of possible candidates in your area and take your time learning about each one. Then, schedule a tour of each practice so that you know exactly what they have to offer.
Location
If your pet unexpectedly needs emergency care, it is essential to get to your vet's office quickly. If at all possible, choose a veterinary hospital you like within an hour's drive of your home. This close proximity will allow you to get to the vet in a timely manner if an emergency strikes!
Services & Fees
Different veterinary hospitals offer different services at different fees, and some even specialize in certain areas of medicine. Ask each clinic about their services, and pay particular attention to the pricing for services your pet will likely require most often. Many veterinary clinics offer Wellness Plans to help spread the cost of routine annual care across 12 easy payments. Find out if the clinics you are interested in offer Wellness Plans.
Schedule a Tour
You should be able to get a tour of the facility, especially if you call ahead. That being said, understand that veterinary hospitals are busy places and an emergency case may turn up while you are there and take priority. On that note, don't just turn up at the hospital and request a tour, as they may not be able to accommodate this. Book the visit ahead of time so that the hospital can schedule a dedicated staff member to show you around and answer your questions.
What To Look For On Your hospital Tour
Is parking easy and accessible?
Getting into and out of any vet's office can be a challenge if your pet isn't feeling well or isn't keen to go. Don't let parking add an extra level of complication to the task. Look for a hospital with plenty of free on-site parking.
Is the facility clean?
Look carefully around the waiting area, exam rooms, and the 'behind the scenes' areas too (if you can), does everything look clean?
Does the hospital have separate entrances and waiting areas for dogs and cats?
If your dog loves to chase cats, or your cat is terrified of dogs, having separate access to the hospital and waiting rooms for these pets can make a huge difference in making your appointments less stressful.
Do animals and people in the waiting area seem comfortable?
While you are there, other clients are bound to come and go. Do the people seem relaxed and 'happy' (under the circumstances)?
Are the staff members friendly, calm and attentive?
Knowing that you will see happy and courteous people when you take your pet to the hospital can make you feel more relaxed about each visit. Look for people chatting freely with the staff, and judge the overall 'feeling' of the space.
Are there emergency services available on-site?
Understanding where you can take your pet in an emergency is vital! Many vets will accommodate emergency visits, whereas others will refer you to a nearby emergency hospital. Take the time to find out the hospital's emergency policy.
Is there a diagnostic lab onsite?
When your pet requires x-rays, bloodwork, ultrasounds, etc. results are bound to come in faster if your vet's office has a lab onsite. If you have a pet that frequently requires testing of any kind, choosing a hospital with a lab may be the best choice for you.
What types of payment does the hospital accept?
Knowing the cost of veterinary care, and how you are able to pay for it, is important to avoiding unpleasant surprises. Beyond the cost and payment for regular services, find out if the hospital offers payment plans for major surgeries and/or treatment for chronic conditions. If not, it may be wise to find out more about Wellness Plans and Pet Insurance to help take the stress out of paying for veterinary care.