How to find the best veterinarian for your pet

Your veterinarian plays a crucial role in your pet's life, providing everything from routine check-ups and vaccinations to handling emergencies and serious health issues. Choosing the right vet ensures your pet receives the best possible care throughout their life, helping to keep them healthy and happy.

When selecting a veterinarian, it’s important to consider several factors that will influence the quality of care your pet receives. From location and qualifications to specialisations and cost, each element plays a part in determining the best fit for your furry friend. Here’s a closer look at what to keep in mind as you search for the right veterinary professional.

Location

Firstly, look up the local veterinarians in your area. How close are they? Can you get to them easily, especially during an emergency? These are important questions to ask before committing to a regular provider. Sometimes, there are no substitutes for sheer convenience.

However, the best provider might not necessarily be the closest one to you, particularly if you need an emergency vet clinic. You may need to have more than one place to go if your pet gets sick or injured.

Qualifications

In Australia, veterinarians need specific licences and qualifications to practise. This can include:

• A bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in veterinary science.
• Registration with their local state board or health department.
• Additional state licences, such as for operating x-ray equipment (radiology).

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) keeps a list of the relevant authorities a vet will need to register with. You can look for registered practitioners in your area through Vet Voice’s search directory.

Some states allow national registration, so vets in NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and Tasmania can still practise in those states even if they are registered elsewhere in Australia. A vet will also need an authorised microchip implanter number if practising in NSW, Victoria, and Queensland.

Any qualifications should be listed clearly on your vet’s website. You can check if the licences they have are legitimate with a quick Google search. If you have any concerns or complaints about a vet, you can voice them to your state veterinary board.

Specialisations

What else can your veterinarian do? Some will be more like GPs (useful for routine care like shots or health checks), while others specialise in areas like emergency surgery or physical therapy. Consider your vet's specialisations and whether they could be right for you.

Vets can specialise in different animals, too. Some deal more with household pets, like cats and dogs, while others cater for farm animals like cows or horses. Keep in mind that specialist vets, such as surgeons or alternative therapy practitioners, may need additional licences.

Facilities and treatments

Different vets will have different equipment and facilities on hand. Some will only have basic care available for vaccinations or minor illnesses/injuries, while others will include emergency clinical services, physical therapy equipment, or overnight accommodation.

Your pet may not need the full suite of healthcare facilities the entire time, but it’s still important to know where the nearest comprehensive vet is if your pet comes down with a more serious illness or injury, or has a pre-existing condition requiring ongoing treatment.

Cost and insurance

Different veterinarians will charge different fees, so it’s important to get an idea of how much a normal or emergency visit could cost.

If you have pet insurance, you will also need to check whether your provider and vet are compatible.Some veterinarians only accept specific insurance policies, while certain providers only allow you to use designated vet networks. Make sure everyone’s on the same page about your coverage.

Reviews and recommendations

Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family. Personal experiences can provide insights into a vet's care and professionalism. Look for consistent themes in reviews, both positive and negative, to gauge the overall reputation of the clinic.

Emergency services

Not all vet clinics offer 24/7 emergency services. Knowing where the nearest emergency vet is located and what their hours are can be crucial in urgent situations. Some clinics have partnerships with emergency services or provide after-hours contact numbers.

Telehealth services

With the rise of technology, some vet clinics now offer telehealth consultations for minor issues or follow-up appointments. This can save you time and provide convenience, especially for routine checks or advice.

Personal fit

Often overlooked, it’s also important to rely on your gut instinct about a veterinarian. Qualifications, experience, and fancy equipment can be fantastic, but it’s also important to gauge how easy they are to work with.

The best veterinarian will stay with your pet through thick and thin, from when they’re a cute puppy or kitten to the end of life. Do you trust them to tell you hard news? Can you see yourself having important conversations with them? It’s never fun to think of the worst-case scenario, but being comfortable with your vet now could save you a lot of heartache later.

While it would be ideal to find a singular, reliable veterinarian who ticks all the boxes, the reality is that no vet can be perfect for every pet owner. The best veterinarian for you will depend on various factors, including your pet's specific needs, your lifestyle, and what you prioritise in veterinary care.

For some pet owners, value for money may outweigh the convenience of proximity, especially if they require specialised services or treatments that are more cost-effective at a particular clinic. Others might prioritise convenience and choose a nearby vet who can provide quick access during emergencies, even if it means sacrificing some specialised services or higher-end facilities.

It’s also important to remember that your needs may change over time. What works when your pet is young and healthy may not be sufficient as they age or develop specific health conditions. If your first choice doesn’t meet your evolving needs, don’t hesitate to explore other options. There are always alternative veterinarians who might be better suited to provide the care your pet requires.

Ultimately, the key is to weigh up what matters most to you and your pet. Take the time to research, visit clinics, and ask questions to find a veterinarian who aligns with your expectations and provides the level of care your pet deserves.

Finding the right vet is just one part of ensuring your pet's health. Make sure to compare pet insurance policies to find one that covers your chosen veterinarian and suits your budget and needs.