We don't have much choice around here--two clinics and that's it! When we first moved, I took Muskwa to both clinics. The first one the woman acted like she didn't even like animals. There was nothing wrong with Muskwa, I was just checking. The second clinic, the vet got down on the floor and introduced himself to Muskwa and then stood up and told me his name. We still see him, Dr. Rick!

The things I like about him are he likes my animals, he remembers their history--at least the significant things, he never acts like he knows my animals better than I do. I once took Pingo in cause she just seemed off. When he asked what the problem was I told him she had a neurotic owner. His response was "better neurotic than sorry." Turned out Pingo was in pain--quicky and easily fixed. He listens when I talk, he can deal with me when I'm hysterical--not an easy thing! He always has time to squeeze in an emergency. When I call at 3am, he never sounds ticked. Now that he knows me, he trusts me to take care of some things on my own and keeps me well stocked with pain killers and antibiotics. He's open to debate on things such as vaccinations and respects my decisions on those things. When he can't fix something, he's not afraid to admit it and seek help from an expert. When there is no hope, he's very gentle and compassionate. I am forever grateful that he was on call the day Hoodoo died. He never tries to get me to do unneccessary testing or make my bill any bigger than it has to be. His clinic is spotless and has up to date equipement. His staff are all personable and knowledgeable. They also remember little touches like sending christmas and sympathy cards, even when the critter didn't have to be euthanized. He also calls to follow up after appointments.

He told my hubby once that we were his ideal client--Lots of animals, we always pay on time and we never call at midnight on Sunday with something that's been wrong since Wednesday afternoon! We got truly lucky with our vet--I'd trust him with my own healthcare!