What do you look for in a vet?

[Jessika]

I know this may sound dumb, but I like a vet or vet tech that regularly works with or owns my breed of dog. That way they usually are more.. knowledgable about my dog's specific needs and all that jazz. haha

Anyway. A vet that is warm, welcoming, and answers EVERY QUESTION with patience and understanding! Not only that, but one that lets you know everything they're doing while examining your pet and doesn't spring surprises charges on you on your bill without asking if you want it done or that they were even doing it!

[beeniesmom]

I am very sorry you lost your job.
With the excuse of looking for another job I'd call all the facilities in your area.
Ask questions. If you feel confortable, go see them in person.
I would also ask pet owners in my area where they take thiers and if they are satisfied.
good luck

[shais_mom]

I forgot to mention about the holistic vet I go to.
It is just her and her receptionist/vet tech. The office is attached to her house. She gets on the floor with Keegan. Keegan goes in and always tries to go into her house. They love her - Keegan isn't prejudice- she loves going to the vet period b/c people make over her and call her pretty.
Just watching the holistic vet at work is amazing to me. She is a very plain woman - rather blunt in appearence and mannerisms but she loves animals and does greyhound rescue. The outside of her building / farm is quite honestly a bit messy. She has about 15-17 horses. But the inside of the office is clean and neat.
I love it b/c she heals naturally rather then trying to put her on steroids or whatever.
That said like I said earlier I love my 'regular' vet too. Keegan loves Dr. Brad so much we were in the exam room one day waiting on him and he was standing at the window talking to another customer and Keegan saw him and got so excited she stood there looking thru our window whining - he looked in and saw her and said "HI Keegan" and she started doing the dance. You could tell she wanted to jump up on the window ledge but b/c of her dysplasia she couldn't. So she just stood there and whined.
One of the younger vets that was there I just LOVED LOVED LOVED her. We would walk in and she would see Keegan and she would squeal " KEEEEGGAAAN" and then the first 5 minutes of the exam was her talking to Keegan and making over her. She always said "I was so excited when I saw Keegan on the schedule she makes me smile and feel so good" Now I know she might have said that to everyone but it made me feel good. I miss her.

[.sarah]

Thanks everyone. Sounds like I have quite a bit of 'homework' to do!

[Alysser]

OMG! I'm so sorry about your job!
I think the most important thing is to see how good they are. I mean, who would want a vet who knows nothing. Also, gentleness with the animals. I wouldn't go to a vet who wasn't gentle with my dog. Cleanliness is also important. If your dog is staying overnight I would hate to think of a dirty area for the dog to have to sleep in!

[Pembroke_Corgi]

Sorry to hear about your job. Everyone gave you great suggestions, so I just thought I'd wish you good luck in finding a new vet!

[.sarah]

Thank you! I'm actually excited about it. It'll be refreshing finding a nicer vet. Well, the vets we had were wonderful at what they did, but our machines and tools and such were outdated. Our autoclave had to be at least 20 years old