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What do I do when I find a vet?
Home » Pets » Choosing a Vet » What do I do when I find a vet?Start by setting up a regular program of preventive care for your pup so the veterinarian will be familiar with and have records on the healthy dog to compare with the sick dog. If you hop from one clinic to another, skip vaccinations or forget to tell this doctor about the medication prescribed by that doctor, the veterinarian who treats your pet for an injury or illness will be at a disadvantage and the animal may suffer.
Ask about vaccination protocols for puppies and adult dogs. Many veterinarians are getting away from automatic annual vaccinations for adult dogs because of evidence that immunization lasts longer than 12 months for some vaccines and research that links too-frequent vaccinations with immune system disorders.
If possible, make sure every vet in the practice has met your dog at least once so that both dog and doctor will know what to expect. Be prepared, though: some dogs may take a dislike to a particular vet for no discernible reason. In that case, make sure your appointments are with a vet who can put your pet at ease.
Veterinarians never stop learning. State veterinary associations host conferences that include dozens of sessions in various aspects of animal medicine; veterinarians and technicians attend these sessions to earn the continuing education credits required to maintain their licenses. In addition to state conferences, the American Veterinary Medical Association also hosts an annual conference and several regional sessions each year, and local associations often get together to discuss particular subjects or cases.
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