Learning About Dog Breeds

You rely on your veterinarian to keep your beloved pets healthy and happy. But part of that process also involves you as a client and partner in pet health. So, how can you promote health and be a good client? Here are four tips to keep in mind.

1. Have Regular Visits. Veterinarians should see your animals more than just when they are sick. Regular visits for things like wellness checkups and vaccinations do more than just 'checkboxes'. They are opportunities to check for signs of illness that you may not be aware of, to check internal indicators like blood and fecal matter, and to make sure your questions are fully answered. Take advantage of routine visits as preventative medicine.

2. Be Aware of Your Pet. You are the first line of defense for your pets because you know them well. Pay attention to normal patterns of behavior so that you can spot abnormal behavior that could indicate problems. Know their routine, eating habits, play habits, and temperaments. And when you do spot differences or new trends, don't wait too long before calling in the doctor. Many ailments are easier and more inexpensively treated earlier rather than later. 

3. Get Cost Information Upfront. Veterinary office reception areas can be chaotic, with other clients waiting, phones ringing, and animals moving around or making noise. So, if you have questions about costs of test or visits, this may not be the best place to have that conversation. If possible, get cost information and timelines upfront before the test or procedure so you can know what to expect. If you need to discuss specific items on a bill or ask further questions, request a quiet space to talk with a knowledgeable representative of the practice. 

4. Be a Courteous Client. The veterinary clinic's staff want you and your pet to be happy, and you can help them in that by being a good client who helps the office run well. Call if you need to reschedule an appointment. Arrive a little early for appointments or call if you're running behind. Don't misuse their after-hours phone number options for non-emergencies, but do make note of who they refer emergencies to just in case you do need help. 

You care about keeping your animals in good shape for a long life, and so does your veterinary practice. And by following these few tips as a client, both you and your veterinarian can focus on pet health and happiness. For more information, contact a company like Oakton Animal Hospital.