Would you get a new vet?

[Ginger's Mom]

Well, it depends. For routine stuff like vaccinations I may look for a new vet, but for major stuff like surgeries I wouldn't consider a few hours' trip unfair in that aspect. I mean... I don't know actually, it's a tough call.

I have some friends who moved from south Jersey to New York City, and this is exactly what they did. For routine things they would take them locally, but for major things they brought their cats back down here. If it was a true emergency they took their cat to the closest emergency clinic and did all of the immediate care necessary. But the next day they would drive down here for follow up.

[Freedom]

Neutering male kittens is a fairly simple procedure, I'm not sure I would travel for that. Talk to pet owners where you live now, get some ideas. I have found the ones who work with feral cat rescue groups are quite good, which has surprised me. Only one who did that work that I didn't like.

My cats do NOT like car rides, and taking 2 there and back home after while they feel woozy may not be such a good idea.

Start now finding someone locally. You never know with pets, that next emergency could be right around the corner; and you KNOW it will be a weekend and /or holiday, that is a given.

[shepgirl]

I would probably get a new vet from referrals. A neuter is so simple that it would be a good way to gauge a new vet. If a vet can screw a neuter or spay then they wouldn't be much of a vet and I would search for another.

[NicoleLJ]

I don't want to give them a chance to screw up the kittens neutering. These boys are pure bred flame point siamese kittens. First time I ever adopted a pure bred kitten from a breeder. But even if they weren't I would still rather get a surgery done by someone I know will do a good job. I have had vets screw up neutering and spaying before. So I know there are vets like that out there.

I would rather wait till the yearly check up or time for Ajax's next shots which is coming up soon. Shots are simple and I will get a referal from my current vet as others suggested.

[emily_the_spoiled]

I don't know about the vets where you live, but my local vet encourages people to come into the facility and look at it before they bring their pets in (if they are interested). When you do get a couple of potential referrals see if you can go in and look at the facilities and how they interact with people/animals.

[pomtzu]

That's a tough call. I too have an awsome vet - very down to earth - takes all the time you need - fair rates and not out only for the almighty dollar - makes house calls one day a week - and genuinely loves her patients.

I'd hate to lose her, but in the event I did move (or she did), I would eventually have to find someone closer. You need to take a lot in to consideration - what about an emergency - what about your present vet's office hours - could weather conditions keep you from traveling, etc..

Word of mouth is usually the best reference - just take the time to check out numerous new vets in your area, and perhaps your present vet can steer you in the right direction too. Good luck!