How to Properly Vet a Vet

Finding the right vet for your pet is one of those adult tasks that measures right up there with scheduling regular dentist appointments and cross-comparing auto insurance quotes. Not exactly free margaritas on the Appeal Scale. Maybe you’ve been putting the task off because you’re not quite sure how to go about it? If that’s the case, we’re here to hold your hand through the process and hook you up with a clear-cut checklist of tasks and questions.

• Ask a few pet parents you look up to. Right now, text a few of your local friends whose level of pet care you admire. Ask them, “Are you happy with your pet’s vet? Would you recommend her/him?” This can give you valuable data either way. You’ll have a few names to either pursue or avoid.

• Visit healthypet.com and pop in your zip code and the amount of miles you’d like to scour. This will give you a handful of local options that are AAHA accredited, meaning the facility is continuously evaluated by the American Animal Hospital Association as “operating at the highest standards of excellence in animal care.”  Look for the letters ABVP after the vet’s names. These letters let you know that this vet has continued education post-graduation and been certified by the American Veterinary Board of Practitioners.

• Cross-reference this clinic and vet info with your friends’ recommendations and, voila, you’ve now narrowed your search.

• Pour yourself a glass of wine. You’ve done some solid adulting already.

• Dial up each of your prospects and ask a few questions. This should only take a few minutes and will give you a good idea of whether or not this facility is a good fit.

References

The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie.com.