Getting Ready For Your First Meeting With A Brand New Veterinarian
Here are some tips to help new clients get ready for your first visit to the new vet. Remember, that when calling to set-up a meeting with a brand new veterinarian, let the receptionist know know right away that you have a new dog and that you would like to meet with the vet and his staff.
Your First Vet Visit
When you meet the veterinarian for the first time you should go just to visit. Make sure to ask your questions in a friendly, non-interrogating manner. Do not cross-examine as though you are waiting to hear the wrong answer. Doing so will make the vet feel very uncomfortable and defensive. It is unlikely that you will get a good description of his or her character, and the doctor is definitely not going to appreciate getting cross-examined!
If You Want Time You Have To Pay
Be ready to take out your checkbook on your first office visit. Although you are not there for a check-up with your dog, this is still a meeting between you, the vet, and your dog. It is, therefore, reasonable for you to pay for the time that it will take for him or her to get to know both you and your pet. In return, the vet should give you his or her undivided attention, answer all of your questions, and be able to provide you with all of the necessary information about his practice.
Once you get to your first appointment with a vet that you have chosen, you do not have to feel obligated to stay with him or her if you did not feel comfortable with the initial visit.
As a vet tech, I have seen lots of people wait until their dog is sick to find a vet, which is a big mistake, because then you can get stuck with a vet who has a personality that clashes with yours. Finding a new vet is one area where you want to be more proactive.
