Selecting A Vet

Selecting a veterinarian is an immediate necessity because puppies require an initial checkup and vaccination when they are only weeks old. If you do not know a veterinarian, ask the person who sold or gave you your puppy, a neighbor, a local pet shop or the Humane Society for a recommendation of a reliable doctor.

Your vet is going to be your puppy's most important friend next to you. Vets help ensure proper development and nutrition in puppies and can assist in training. In addition, your vet can help protect your puppy from parasites and diseases and explain the health benefits of spaying or neutering your pet. To help in the selection process, we've included a checklist of things to look for when selecting a vet.

Facilities

• Does your veterinarian maintain a clean office with a caring and helpful staff?
• Does the veterinarian have flexible office hours?
• Does the veterinarian and staff appear to be comfortable caring for animals?

Location

• Traveling with a sick or injured puppy can be stressful. Choose a location that is convenient for you.
• Is the office located relatively close to your home?
• Do you feel comfortable transporting your pet back and forth?

Emergency Care Facilities

• Does the veterinarian provide emergency care during off-hours?
• If the emergency care is not at the veterinarian's facilities, is it at a location that is convenient for you in an emergency situation?
• Are hospital services available?

Get to know your veterinarian. Once you feel comfortable with how the veterinarian responds to your questions, you'll know that you've found the right person to care for your dog! After you select your vet, fill out this convenient form and keep it with you:

1. Veterinarian Name:______________________________
2. Address:______________________________________
3. Address:______________________________________
4. Office Phone Number:____________________________
5. Office Fax Number:______________________________
6. Emergency Phone Number:_______________________
7. Office Hours:___________________________________

• First Aid Tips
• The Aspca’s Top 10 Hot Weather Tips
• Nutrition for Your Pup
• Frequently Asked Questions on Health and Nutrition
• Puppy Care
• Stages of Development of Your Pup
• Training Your Dog
• Selecting A Vet
• How to Choose the Right Dog
• Choosing the Right Dog
• Grooming Your Dog
• Myths and Facts about Cats
• Neuter And Spay - It's The Humane Way*
• Your Cat Is Safer Indoors
• Rabies - What You Need To Know
• Care of Your Companion Dog
• Vegetarian Diet For Dogs
• Taurine for your cat