Finding The Right Vet

Finding the right vet for you large breed dog is quite a challenge. I recommend taking the time to do some screening. The last thing you need is to have a vet assigned to you who is specialized in miniature breeds, this has actually happened to me. A couple of things to look for, examining rooms that have tables that can be lowered to the floor so your large dog can be placed on it and secured, then raised for an examination. It is also helpful if the scales they have for weighing pets are one they simply step up on. Take a tour of the facility, look at the examining rooms, the hospital area, and boarding facilities, find out if they do in-house lab work or if it is sent out. Check to see if they can do x-rays for large breeds. Find out which veterinarians are taking on more clients; arrange to talk with them briefly. You will want to know their operating hours. Are they open on weekends, what about holidays? Do they handle emergencies? It is important to find a veterinarian that you feel confident in their knowledge and experience and also that you feel comfortable with. Your pet’s reaction to them is a good barometer as to whether they are right for you as well.