My four legged family consists of three cats, two dogs and one horse. Of that, three are senior citizens, two are middle aged and Rave, the youngest cat is still in adolescence.
You can imagine my vet bills – especially with a horse named Ima Real Investment? However, it is important for us animal parents not only to have a vet, but to have a vet both you and your animal feel comfortable with.
I am very fortunate with my vets – yes, that’s plural! Excelsior Animal Hospital takes care of the cats and dogs, River Valley Veterinary Services takes care of horse Shiloh, and Interlaken Centre does the acupuncture for the entire crew.
I’d like to share with you what I like about these vets. These are some suggestions and thoughts to keep in mind should you be looking for a vet.
1. My animals adore their vets and the staff.
2. The reception staff is very friendly, helpful and well informed.
3. The office hours are compatible with my life style and needs.
4. All the vets and staff have an excellent bedside manner with the animals.
5. All the vets have excellent people skills and are extremely good at explaining to me what is going on and the procedure or course of action they recommend and why they make that recommendation.
6. Each vet has their own specialty: one for large animal, one for small animal and one for acupuncture. Should I ever acquire a bird or reptile, I would need to find a vet specializing in those services.
7. Each vet office is conveniently located. In Shiloh’s case, his vet comes to the barn.
8. I feel comfortable with the facilities – from the parking area to the exam room.
9. Shiloh’s vet is on call; for the cats and dogs, I have an emergency vet service I use when needed.
10. The vets I use are in alignment with my thoughts on vaccinations, diet and holistic approaches.
A couple of other points to keep in mind regarding vets. It’s best to take a proactive position in finding a vet. Should there be an emergency situation, you don’t want to find yourself in the position of googling local vet offices or thumbing through the yellow pages.
Also, even with the downturn in the economy, it is very important to take your animals in for their regular checkups. Regular checkups can help to circumvent serious problems later down the road, and help you to save money in the long run.
Harmony,
Janet Roper
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Janet – Please come visit me and pick up an award!
That was a great post! Having a vet you trust is so important. We just found a holistic vet that is close by and we really like his approach to wellness. During the Harley’s first visit for a routine check up, the vet spent 45 minutes taking to us.
Hi Daisy,
Glad you enjoyed the post, and thanks for stopping by! Sounds like you and Harley are in good hands. I bet your mom really was ecstatic the vet spent the time getting to know you and letting you get comfortable with him/her.
Have a good day.
Harmony,
Janet
Thank you, Victoria!
Harmony,
Janet