Category: Health

What to Expect at Your Puppy’s First Vet Visit

Your Puppy’s First Vet Visit

The best veterinarians have busy schedules, so if you know exactly when you’ll be picking your puppy up, call in advance to get a convenient appointment. Don’t wait until the last minute.

You should also try to visit the clinic before your puppy comes home. Look around and see if you are at ease there, that the support staff seems friendly, and the facility is clean. Most vets will take the time to chat with prospective clients. This can be very helpful because it’s important that you are comfortable enough with this individual to ask questions. You will have lots of them when your new pup comes home and you want someone who will treat your concerns with respect.

Also, find out about the clinic’s after-hours setup. One great truth about life with puppies is that emergencies rarely pop up from 9 to 5. Know what to do in the case your puppy gets an ear infection in the middle of the night, and that includes making plans for transportation to the facility.

What Happens During The First Vet Visit

During your puppy’s first visit, the vet should:

• Weigh the puppy;
• Listen to heart and lungs with a stethoscope;
• Take his temperature (note: pet temperatures are taken rectally);
• Examine eyes, ears, nose, feet, and genitalia
• Examine skin and coat;
• Look at teeth and mouth;
• Palpate abdomen and lymph nodes;
• Examine feces (bring a sample) for the presence of worms (most pups have roundworms);
• Discuss the puppy’s history and any questions you might have about feeding, medical issues, such as worm medications, and future care, such as microchipping, and spaying and neutering;
• If you are going home with medications or treatments, make sure that you understand when and how they are to be given. Follow directions to the letter, and set up a schedule for follow-up visits and vaccinations.

Remember to bring any paperwork, such as medical records from the breeder or rescue, so the vet can include these in your dog’s file.

When to Take a Puppy to the Vet for the First Time

Many dog shelters and breeders start vet visits for puppies before they release their little ones to new pet parents. You should receive paperwork that clearly states what type of care has already been provided, when that occurred, and when you should schedule your puppy’s next veterinary visit.

But regardless of what the shelter or breeder has already done, it is always a good idea to schedule a new puppy vet visit within a few days of picking up your new canine companion. This will allow the veterinarian to review your pup’s records and quickly provide any overdue care. The doctor will also perform a complete physical examination and perhaps run some laboratory tests to identify any potential health concerns. It’s best to learn about problems as soon as possible before any health guarantees the breeder provides expires.

A typical vet schedule for puppies is for appointments to occur every 3 to 4 weeks starting when puppies are 6 to 8 weeks old and ending when they are 4 or 5 months old. Most puppies start their vaccinations when they are 6 to 8 weeks old. Puppies who receive their first vaccinations when they are older than 4 or 5 months of age can usually be caught up in two visits scheduled 3 to 4 weeks apart. Your veterinarian may adjust this plan based on your puppy’s particular history and needs.

Tips for a Puppy’s First Vet Visit

Now that you know what to expect, here are 9 tips to have a great first puppy vet visit.

Call ahead and schedule an appointment.

I know this seems like a duh, but is overwhelming when you have a new puppy, so take care of this right away. If you live in the Southeast, look for a vet with Southern Vet Partners. When you schedule, share with the receptionist of any special needs your pet has (afraid of other dogs, anxious at the vet, dislikes nail trims, etc), or other issues (lots of scratching, chewing paws, coughing, etc). You can also schedule online.

Write down any questions/concerns you have

Just like when you go to the pediatrician for your kids, it is a good idea to have a running list. Most people forget what their questions are when they arrive, so it is good to have a list at home.

Fill out paperwork prior to arrival

Have your previous vet (if applicable) send over any medical records. If no previous vet, send any paperwork you have, or if not able, bring with you to your appointment. We brought our folder of information about Zelda that we got from her breeder.

Bring puppy food and treats

If it’s close to feeding time, don’t feed at home. Instead bring your puppy’s food and/or favorite treats. They are more accepting to food rewards and distraction when they have their appointment. This is also helpful when going over your pet’s diet with your vet.

Bring anything that will make your pet comfortable

If your puppy has favorite blanket, toys, treats, laser pointer, etc., bring those to help make him or her comfortable.

Before an Appointment

Your vet will need some basic info on your animal pal, especially if you’re bringing him in for the first time. Take notes with you on:

• The names and doses of all of your pet’s medications
• The kind of food they eat
• Their eating and drinking habits
• Their toilet habits
• Any recent travel or tick bites
• Past medical records, including vaccine history
• Your vet may also want a stool sample. Call ahead and ask. If you have a bird or small animal like a hamster, you might not need to collect one: Chances are your pet will provide one on the way to the appointment or while you’re in the office.

Visits to the vet can be stressful for your buddy. Bring along some of their favorite toys and a blanket. Ask if it’s OK for them to eat before the visit — some health tests require animals to fast beforehand. (Water is OK — you don’t want them to be dehydrated.) If food is OK, you could bring their favorite treats.

Cats, small critters like ferrets and hamsters, and birds should be in carriers when you bring them in. Dogs should at least be on a leash, although small ones may do better in a carrier.

If your pet doesn’t get along well with other animals, let the office staff know. It might be easier for it to wait in your car with you until the vet is ready for the appointment. Call ahead of time to see if the clinic is running on schedule so you don’t end up waiting too long.

Know what your budget is, too. This will help the vet know how extensive a checkup should be. Some people prefer for their pet to get routine bloodwork. Others are fine with the basics, like listening to the animal’s heart and checking their eyes, nose, ears, teeth, and poop. Figure out how much you’re prepared to spend if a test shows that your pet needs treatment.

What can I do to make the first visit a good experience?

The very first visit to the veterinary clinic should not be clinical at all, but rather a fun introduction to a new place. When scheduling your first visit, tell the receptionist that you want to introduce your dog to the veterinary clinic before his medical appointment. Ask if you can drop in when the clinic is least busy so that your dog is not overwhelmed by a multitude of strange dogs and cats, and so the receptionist has time to chat with you.

While in the veterinary clinic, have your dog on a short leash to keep him close to you. Small dogs can be held in your arms, but should still be on a leash in case they manage to jump out of your embrace. You may want to place a nervous dog inside a crate to limit his interaction with other animals and to make him feel secure. You can improve the homey atmosphere of the crate by lining it with a familiar smelling towel or blanket.

With your dog safely under your control, you can focus on making this first hospital experience a fun one. Veterinary staff members should be happy to give you a tour of the hospital, make friends with your dog, and offer a treat to make the first visit pleasant.

You will not see the veterinarian on this drop in so it should only take a few minutes, giving you an opportunity to get a head start on the real visit by setting up your dog’s medical chart. Bring along all medical records including previous immunizations, deworming treatments, heartworm/tick prevention, and medical concerns.

Drills, needles, and pain, oh my! Coping with dental anxiety

For many people, going to the dentist is an unpleasant but manageable experience. For others, just the thought of going to the dentist causes severe anxiety, leading them to delay or avoid dental treatment. Unfortunately, this behavior can spiral into a vicious cycle of dental pain, health problems, worse anxiety, and more complex and costly dental procedures.

Dental anxiety and phobia

It’s very common for people to fear going to the dentist. When dental fear is severe and leads people to delay or cancel treatment, these individuals may meet criteria for dental phobia or odontophobia, which is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition as a type of phobia. There are many different reasons for and triggers of dental anxiety. For some, they have had a previous traumatic experience; for others, they are extremely afraid of needles. Because the origin of fear can vary from patient to patient, it is critical that you identify your fears and share this with your dentist or another health care professional.

If you experience dental anxiety or phobia, here are some tips to ensure you maintain your oral health and receive comfortable dental care.

Prevention and the mouth-body connection

The best way to avoid complex dental procedures and pain is to regularly visit your dentist. Not only will your dentist diagnose problems and help you prevent future issues, but he or she will also help manage your oral health as part of your general health. Your mouth is the gateway to your body. For example, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have periodontitis, a type of bone and gum disease, which could lead to tooth loss. In fact, studies have shown that controlling diabetes can help control gum and bone health, and vice versa.

Reasons You Shouldn’t Dread Going To The Dentist

I used to be so afraid of going to the dentist that I put off going for a couple years. It wasn’t until my gums were inflamed and causing me pain that I actually went to go see the dentist. I am not alone. In fact, an estimated 75% of Americans experience fear or anxiety when going to the dentist. 10% of those people have dental phobia. Those with dental phobia don’t seek dental treatment unless an emergency arises. Yet, regular dentist visits are essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Here’s why you shouldn’t avoid going to the dentist:

IT’S THEIR JOB TO HELP

Dentists don’t get any special joy out of causing you pain. It’s their job is to keep your mouth healthy, and they will do what they can to make sure you are comfortable during any treatment or procedure (hint: they want you to actually come back). Many dentists offices offer forms of sedation to make treatments are more comfortable.

THE LONGER YOU WAIT THE WORSE IT WILL GET

If you don’t floss regularly, plaque can harden to a point where it’s impossible for you to remove it by simply brushing or flossing. You need a professional to remove the tartar before it builds up and causes cavities. The more you visit the dentist – the easier time you will have each visit, especially if you are taking care of your teeth in between.

IT COULD COST YOU MORE MONEY

Patients who avoid the dentists because of fear or anxiety often end up needing more restorative work done. The extra work being done will cost you more time and money. If left untreated, small problems will grow into bigger ones and cause infections and tooth decay. With regular check ups, you can avoid these problems from the start.

ONE BAD DENTIST SHOULDN’T RUIN THEM ALL

Many people find themselves dreading the dentist after a bad experience with one office. Not all dentists are the same. There are dentists that do a great job of making their patients feel comfortable. Finding the right match for your mouth could make all the difference in your experience.

Tips to Overcome the Fear of Dentists:

Because avoiding the dentist is not the solution, we bring you some tips that can help alleviate your phobia of the dentists. Make sure to use these the next time your dentist appointment is round the corner!

* Introspect and try to reason with yourself as to what it is that makes you scared of the dentist. Pinpointing the reason will help you rationalize your worries.

* Ask a family member or friend to accompany you to the dentist. Having a loved one by side can boost your emotional strength.

* Try to distract yourself during the procedures. Listening to music, hanging on to a stress ball, counting numbers to yourself in mind are some good distraction techniques.

* Inform your dentist about your fears. Request them to keep the procedure as communicative as possible, meaning throughout the procedure they should keep you in the loop about what exactly they are doing and how that will feel.

* Don’t feel shy asking for breaks in between the procedure if you need some time to recompose yourself. 

The best dentists use simple methods to enhance that feeling of control

• They gently explain what the patient will soon feel, and for about how long.
• They frequently ask the patient for permission to continue.
• They give the patient the opportunity to stop the procedure at any time the patient feels uncomfortable
• They make time for breaks as requested.

Do You Have a Dental Phobia?

The first step to getting over any phobia or anxiety is to acknowledge that it exists in the first place. If you are avoiding the dentist there’s a good chance you have some level of dental anxiety.

Here are some of the most common reasons for dental phobias:

• Childhood dental experience: the most formative dental memories are created during childhood years.
• Painful dental experience: The mouth is one of the most heavily nervous areas in the body.
• Dental related poor self-esteem: Some people fear going to the dentist because they feel embarrassed due to their mouth. This may be due to aesthetic problems and embarrassment with teeth, bad breath, gag reflexes, or chronic pain.

All of these conditions can cause a general fear of people looking at or being close to your mouth, which of course, is the very nature of dental treatment it self.

How To Choose A Good Chiropractor

I heart you but come on man! What’s up with the scathing rant about chiropractor on your podcast? And SciBabe tearing the profession down in the most unintelligent, can barely make a sentence way, it just break my heart. But you did it! You got people talking, slinging claims on both sides of the fence.

What it comes down to is this: There is a layer of skepticism that cloaks chiropractic in the medical community. And that trickles down to the community in general. But, while it’s always been there, I don’t think it always will be. The truth is, there’s a major shift happening. Chiropractic is gaining credibility more and more, and even medical doctors are beginning to refer their patients for spinal manipulation, physical rehabilitation, and looking at the body head to toe to find the root cause. Yes, you read that correctly. Medical doctors are now referring their patients to chiropractors. And it’s about time!

Two in three people will likely experience significant low back pain at some point in their lives. And because most back pain resolves over time, therapies aimed at symptom relief and allowing the body to heal naturally are ideal. Less traditional approaches, like the nonpharmacological practices of physical therapy and chiropractic have proven quite effective and, in many cases, safer than medication.

Physicians are now beginning to understand what chiropractic patients have known for years. Spinal manipulation works. In a large survey of patients from 2002 through 2008 found that more than 30% of them sought chiropractic care. That’s a lot of people lining up time and again for something that “doesn’t work” according to Rogan

For decades, there was little research done on chiropractic, and what little research was available was shoddy at best, making the results pretty grim. Recently though, we’ve been seeing an upswing in higher-quality studies, which means a pretty good accumulation of data.

things you should look for when choosing a chiropractor.

Private Adjusting Rooms

In recent years, chiropractic clinics are turning to open room treatments. While this is perfectly legal, it’s not always the best option. You want an office to have a completely private treatment setting to feel the most comfortable and to discuss any concerns at any time with your practitioner. Privacy and patient outcomes should always be the top priority of any clinic.

Detailed Examinations

An in-depth examination is key to find not only where the problem is located, but what is causing the problem in the first place. In some chiropractic offices you are rushed through an examination at first, with a quick adjustment and out the door you go. This should not be the case. In order for any doctor to treat you effectively they need to conduct a thorough exam to uncover the root cause of the issue. Before you start care at any chiropractic clinic, make sure they have not only the procedures, but also the technology and equipment to conduct a thorough exam. Digital X-rays, thermography, and orthopedic tools are just a few things a potential patient should be looking for.

Pre and Post Measurements

Again, a detailed examination is key. A huge part of that examination are X-ray findings. X-rays are a great indicator on how and to what degree the spine has shifted. This needs to be done to take a look at what is actually going on with your spinal system. These also need to be interpreted accurately, and in a way for the patient to understand. The doctor should always sit down with the patient and patient’s family to go over the X-rays with them. It is a huge part of patient care that is often overlooked. Find a clinic that focuses on analytical findings, and pre & post measurements so you can actually see the progress you’re making.

Local Involvement

Do the doctors that work in this office take initiative with community involvement? Are they in service organizations and participate in projects around town? Do they live in the community in which they practice in? If they do, more than likely they will have a vested interest in community health. Choose a chiropractor that lives in the town they practice in and puts service above themselves.

Chiropractic the Main Thing

When you look on their website or Facebook page is it flooded with weight loss program deals? Do they push supplements, vitamins, or protein powders more than chiropractic care? Some chiropractic clinics say they offer so much, you can’t tell if they are a chiropractic office, weight loss clinic, or a physical therapist. Many chiropractic clinics focus their attention and marketing on servces/products that aren’t affiliated with chiropractic simply to increase their bottom line. By not focusing the majority of their time and attention on quality examinations and treatments, patient care may be falling by the wayside. Make sure to choose a chiropractic clinic that unmistakably keeps chiropractic care the main thing.

How to Choose a Good Chiropractor

Making the decision to visit a chiropractor to help with your back pain is a positive move. But choosing the right chiropractor is just as important as choosing to see one in the first place. So to help you make sure your chiropractor is right for you, we’ve compiled the check list below.

If you’re chiropractor ticks these boxes, then you’re more than likely on to a good thing:

1: A good chiropractor will make referrals to other professionals if you problem can’t be treated with chiropractic care.

2: Your chiropractor should make nutritional, exercise and lifestyle recommendations where necessary.

3: A chiropractor who has your best interests at heart will be happy when you feel good. In other words, your chiropractor shouldn’t offer additional appointments if you don’t need them.

4: Your chiropractor should work with you throughout your treatment plan and listen and act upon any concerns you may have.

How to choose a good chiropractor

At the London Wellness Centre we will always treat patients individually. Your treatment will be decided following a thorough assessment which uses muscle testing, postural analysis, detailed examination and a full medical history.

A Chiropractor should never treat you without this type of assessment. They should never hurt, aside from a feeling of pressure or mild discomfort. When looking for a reputable chiropractor, make sure they are registered with the GCC and that they provide this type of thorough service

Chiropractors are known for treating necks and backs as they have such a high success rate in treating these areas. However, chiropractors train for five years before qualifying and entering private practice. In order to use the title Chiropractor (which is protected) they have to be registered with the General Chiropractic Council.

Can sacroiliac joint pain be cured?

Yes. But the extent to which we can ease any type of pain, or reduce the chance of a condition recurring will depend on the individual and the type of treatment we are able to carry out. Why not come and see us at the London Wellness Centre and let us assess your health and wellbeing and arrange a personalised treatment plan?

Chiropractor vs physiotherapist

Chiropractors and physiotherapists both treat joint pain and musculoskeletal problems but they do it in very different ways. Chiropractors are also neurologically trained so they focus on the messages sent around the body by the central nervous system. They usually use manipulation as a technique – realigning joints and releasing muscles and nerves – whereas physiotherapists use mobilisation through exercise instruction and occasional soft-tissue work.

The Ultimate Guide To Seeing A Chiropractor

“Chiropractor” is one of the most searched phrases on Google. It comes as no surprise as chiropractic treatments work wonders not only for lower back pain, neck and shoulder aches pains, but also for conditions such as “wear and tear” knee pain

Is chiropractor a doctor?

A chiropractor, or doctor of chiropractic, is a health care provider who is trained to diagnose and treat joint and muscles disorders. Contrary to popular belief, chiropractors do not work with bones.

Traditional vs. modern chiropractors

Not all chiropractors are the same. Traditional chiropractors – known also as “straight” chiropractors – believe they can correct “subluxations” or misalignment in the spine with chiropractic adjustments. According to them, spinal misalignment disrupts the nervous system and correction of the “subluxations” will give better health.

However, there is no evidence to support a subluxation-based approach to pain and injury. Modern chiropractors apply the latest research in their treatments. We move follow an evidence-based framework and utilise the research-proven treatments to help you achieve faster recovery.

The Best Vet for Your Pet

As a pet owner, developing a trusting relationship with your veterinarian is an integral aspect of your dog or cat’s health. Just as we put a great deal of thought into choosing our own doctor, we want to have a competent and knowledgeable person whom we trust to care for our pets. Whether starting from scratch and adopting a new pet or simply moving to a new city or state, there comes a point when every pet owner has to choose a veterinarian. For some people, finding the perfect vet is as simple as searching the internet for the nearest office. For others, there are more factors to consider: the veterinarian, the support staff, cost of services and the location of the veterinary office, to name a few.

It’s up to you to weigh all the factors and decide which are most important to you. Perhaps you have a cat or dog who does not tolerate long car rides; therefore, finding a veterinary office that is close to home might take precedence. Many owners will be willing to travel a little farther for a veterinarian they like and trust will make good decisions for their pet. The friendliness of the staff and comfort level of the office are also important considerations. While it’s true that most pets don’t love going to see the veterinarian, you want to make sure to give your pet the most pleasant experience possible.

So how do you choose? Word of mouth is probably your best bet. Having a trusted friend or even an acquaintance that already has an established relationship with a veterinarian can go a long way. If you’re new to the area, visit a local dog park or pet store and ask other owners where they take their pets. You could end up with a great recommendation. If you’re moving, don’t feel shy about asking your current veterinary office for suggestions for a new clinic. I have had clients do this, and, quite often, I have old classmates in the area to whom I can refer them. At the very least, I can come up with a referral through another veterinarian friend.

What to Look for in a Veterinary Clinic

An ideal veterinary office should be clean, well-organized and comfortable. Every clinic has their share of hectic days, but, overall, the staff should conduct themselves in a friendly, helpful and professional manner. They should be attentive and willing to answer your questions and/or accommodate your pet’s needs

Evaluating a New Veterinarian

When evaluating a new veterinary clinic for the first time, take your pet in for a wellness exam, if possible. Assessing a new veterinary office can be much more difficult when dealing with the emotional stress of having a sick pet. Make sure to go prepared with your pet’s medical records, including a full history of his or her vaccinations and a summary of any past health issues. Most clinics, breeders or adoption agencies should be able to provide you with your pet’s pertinent history upon request. The more information you supply for your new veterinarian, the better equipped he or she will be to give recommendations regarding the best care for your pet.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Veterinarian

As pet parents, we take great joy in picking out the perfect collar and matching leash, the most comfy bed, and cutest dishes we can find for our pets. It goes without saying, taking the time to choose your pet’s veterinarian is one of the most important things you can do for your pet

What is their philosophy? Does it coincide with mine?

We believe that pets are truly a part of the family dynamic, and that the human animal bond is important. At The Drake Center, we aim to ensure that every human and animal who walks through our doors receives a one-of-a-kind veterinary experience. This unique level of service is based on a dedication to quality patient care called The Drake Center Difference.

How do the veterinarians and staff treat you and your pet? How many doctors are at the practice?

If you’re in the market for a place to take your pets for their medical needs, we encourage you to come in for a “happy visit” and simply meet our amazing staff.

Vet techs and assistants: Do they seem knowledgeable about and sensitive to animals?

We pride ourselves in staffing amazing vet techs, tech assistants, and receptionists. Many have been working at The Drake Center for over 15 years and have a genuine passion for animals. In addition, we strive to make you feel like you are a part of our family from the moment you walk in the door.

Is your veterinary hospital accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)?

Did you know that only 12% of veterinary practices are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association? AAHA holds animal hospitals to the highest level of care, requiring they pass a 900 point inspection.

How To Pick The Best Vet

I once got in a fight with a veterinarian while my dog, Sereno, lay in agony on an exam table. He had “bloated”—his stomach had twisted and filled with air. It was a deadly problem I’d seen many times as a vet tech, and I knew that if we didn’t release some of the air with a stomach tube or get him into surgery pronto, he was going to die.

I was on vacation in rural West Virginia and had just driven 45 miles at top speed looking for a vet. This was the first clinic I saw: tiny, with a broken screen door and a hand-painted sign that said veterinarian. Sereno looked like he’d swallowed a beach ball, and when I tapped his stomach, it made the telltale pinging sound of a bloated dog. But the vet suggested a blood test to rule out kidney failure. I asked her to take an X-ray. She did—I saw what looked like unequivocal bloat on the film, but she wasn’t sure.

That’s when I lost it. I’d helped pump countless dogs’ stomachs as a tech—it’s tricky and takes more than one person, but at that point I was desperate. “Can I just have a stomach tube?” I snapped. “I’ll do it myself.”

First, I asked myself, What do all good vets I know have in common? They didn’t stop learning after vet school—they did internships and took continuing education classes. Most work at clinics accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). So I searched online for AAHA hospitals. I visited each clinic’s website to look at its vets’ educational backgrounds: Multiple internships got bonus points; so did residencies. I also looked for the abbreviation ABVP after the vets’ names, because it means they did extra work to be certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. That narrowed my list of clinics from 170 to 3. Only then did I check what is often people’s first criterion: location.

I made appointments with each clinic, starting with the closest one. I planned to try all three. But then I walked into the first clinic and told the vet—as I always do—that I’m a pain because I’m a former vet tech who asks a lot of questions. He laughed, then spent 45 minutes examining my dogs and talking with me. He referred me to a board-certified dermatologist for my young dog’s allergies and mentioned a new treatment he wanted to try for a problem my older dog’s had for years. I went home and canceled my other appointments.

Choosing a vet

How do vet practices work?

Some veterinary practices operate with just one veterinary surgeon and one member of staff. Others may have 15 of more vets with a similar number of nursing and support staff.

Practices may operate on more than one site – the main practice being supported by 3 or more branch surgeries. The branch surgeries may have limited on-site facilities and equipment, but they allow you to see a vet without having to travel long distances.

Facilities do vary between practices. Some may have extensive equipment and facilities on-site, while others contract some services out to specialist firms or labs. Similarly, veterinary surgeons may refer unusual or complicated cases to veterinary surgeons who specialise in a particular species or discipline.

What is 24-hour cover?

Whatever the size of the premises, veterinary surgeons have to make sure that 24-hour emergency cover is available for their clients every day of the week.

They can do this in several ways; a practice may provide this themselves, or some practices get together locally to provide this service, which may mean that you have to travel to a different practice in a emergency

How to Choose a Good Vet

Veterinary care is mandatory in your pet’s life. Whether it’s a cat, a dog, a parrot, rabbit, or an iguana. From the moment a new family member of any species arrives home, we should give them all the conditions they need to live happily beside us. Periodic visits to the vet are one of the key points of any animal’s health.

Each species requires specific care that can include de-worming, vaccinations or only periodic visits as preventative measures to ensure that all is well. Many carers only take their pet to the vet when the animal becomes sick. Don’t make this mistake. Even before adopting an animal you should look for a veterinarian

Legalization of the clinic

This is undoubtedly point number 1. Unfortunately, there are many ‘fake vets”and clinics that are not legalized. The role of Justice is to detect these cases of fraud but all carers should be aware and conscious that these cases exist and may be closer than you think.

Only a veterinary doctor that has had the required training and practice needed can perform medical acts with animals. Don’t take your dog to be vaccinated by the worker of the Pet shop, nor to your neighbor to get “cheap shots”. Cheap ends up being expensive and your animal’s health is priceless!

Location

The question of the location of the clinic or veterinary hospital is relative. Ideally, a clinic near your home is the most indicated to avoid the stress of travelling with the animal and the time it takes to get to the clinic in case of emergency. However, driving a few extra miles may be worth it to receive better services. You will always have to assess the pros and cons.