Your beloved pet deserves the best care possible. That extends to the veterinarian you choose for checkups and care. There are a lot of veterinarians in Ottawa, and choosing the right one is an important decision when it comes to making sure your furry friend lives a long and healthy life.
So, how do you make that decision? We’ll go through some factors to think about in this blog.
When to Look for a Vet
The best time to look for a vet is before you actually need one. That ensures you have the time to shop around and make sure you’re picking the right one. Choose one before you bring your pet home for the first time. If you’re moving, make sure you look for one as soon as possible – waiting until your cat or dog is sick or injured can make it stressful to find a veterinarian quickly.
What to Look for in a Vet
The first thing you need to check for any potential option is to find out whether or not they are accepting new patients. Other things you should consider include:
· Check Their Hours – Make sure the vet has hours that are compatible with yours. Do they have evening and weekend hours? These may be essential things to know if you work a 9-5 job.
· Find Out Their Emergency Protocol – Can the practice handle emergencies in-house, or do they outsource urgent care? Is there a veterinarian you can speak to 24/7 if you need to?
· How Many Vets Work at the Practice – Larger practices with more staff may mean more availability. However, it can also mean you may not get the same vet each time, which means a less personal relationship and less consistency.
· Costs – Find out how much routine services cost, such as preventative care (exams and vaccinations), dental cleanings, nail trims, and more.
How to Find the Right One
You don’t have to plunge in blindly. There are a few ways you can help make your search more efficient.
Ask a Friend
Asking a friend who also has a pet is the most reliable source of information. Friends, family, or even neighbours can provide valuable recommendations based on their experiences with their vet.
Trust the Reviews
Reviews and ratings on websites like Google, Yelp, and Facebook are great sources of information about a veterinarian you’re considering. Look for high ratings and read how their clients feel about them.
Referrals
Asking your current vet for a referral is a useful option if you’re moving away. They may be able to recommend the best veterinarian in the area you’re moving to.
Make Chapel Hill Veterinary Clinic in Ottawa Your Veterinarian
At Chapel Hill Veterinary, our goal is to provide compassionate care for your pets. Our goal is to treat every dog and cat with the kindness and respect they deserve. We offer an experienced and compassionate staff with extensive knowledge.
To book your pet to see one of our veterinarians in Ottawa, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you.