Ruby's Recommendations
Research AAHA Approved Veternarian practices.
The American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits animal hospitals throughout the U.S. and Canada. AAHA-accredited hospitals voluntarily choose to be evaluated on 900 standards. Hospitals accredited by AAHA must demonstrate an exceptional level of medical care and client service and they are re-evaluated every three years to make sure they are keeping up with industry updates. Click here for AAHA website. (Our previous vet Michele Smith at 29th Avenue Animal Hospital was not on this list). Most importantly, check with state vet board to see if any complaints are on their vet record, as they could still have AAHA accreditation and be cited for negligence or malpractice. This accreditation certainly does not ensure a solid vet choice by itself. The other criteria below should be considered.
Ask to see the back of the facility where the animals are kept. You have a right to see the non-public areas. Ensure the kennels all have working locks and no locks are loose or broken. Kennels should be tight and secure. If we would have done this, Ruby would still be with us. This may be uncomfortable to ask at first, but let them know why you are asking and tell them it is for Ruby's sake. If they don't agree with letting you see the non-public area, perhaps they have something to hide.
Check with the local and state veterinary medicine boards to ensure there are no complaints filed about this vet in the past. If the vet was cited for anything in the past from the board, it will remain on their permanent record. You can google your state vet board online or click here to see a list.
Check with the Better Business Bureau in the area. Do a search on the internet with the vet's name and location. Are there any reviews about this vet? What do they say? Google, Yelp, Citysearch, MSN, AOL, Yahoo, Angie's List, Vetratingz, etc.
Ask to see all entry ways and exits of the vet. Most vets have double doors or safety precautions in place. Is there a double door to prevent your pet from getting out? Is there a fence around the exterior door? Is this vet near a busy street? Are the doors secure and locked at all times? How close are the kennels to the exit? Is there a fence around the side or back exits and a fenced area for vet staff to take dog outside if needed while in care? (See Toasty's story)
What is the condition of the other kennels and animals in the kennels? Do they look well cared for and secure? Are the kennels clean? Are there any broken kennel doors? Are there any unpleasant odors?
Go with your gut. If something does not feel right, trust your gut and keep looking. Your instincts are more valuable than you think and you owe it to your pet to make the right choice. Ask your vet if an animal has ever died under their care as a result of a mistake they made. Are they open, honest, responsible, and how do they handle you asking this question?
Never select a vet based on convenience. This is the cardinal mistake we made that cost us the life of our dog. Do your homework first. Driving a few extra miles is worth it for your pet.
Office Hours are important. What are the hours of operation? Are they open on weekends and do they have evening hours? Do they have after hours emergency coverage or can they refer you to a nearby credible after hours vet in case of an emergency? What is average wait time when you call to set up appointment for non-emergencies? Do they have licensed staff after hours to watch your pet overnight for monitoring? Don't leave your pet overnight if there is not licensed staff there at all times to monitor your pet's progress in case of emergency or worsening conditions.
Ask about Licensing of Staff and Delegation of Duties. Are the vet technicians licensed and what duties will be performed by licensed and unlicensed staff? It is recommended that you select a vet where only licensed staff will be handling your pet at all times.
It may take you more time to find the right vet, but it is time well spent for you and your pet. Your vet should show genuine concern about you and your pet at all times. You are trusting your loved one with this individual and they should always put the health, safety, and welfare of your pet as their primary mission.
May Ruby rest in peace and may others pay closer attention in the future to the selection of their vet.
