Originally posted on https://www.windmillvet.com/blog/veterinarian-in-abilene-texas/

 

Do you need to take your pet to the vet in Abilene, Texas? If so, read on to learn how to find the best veterinarian in Abilene, Texas.

 

Did you know there are over 73,000 veterinary practices in the US?

With so many vets out there, how can you choose the best one for your pet?

This is no easy decision. Your pet is a member of your family, and you want it to receive the best possible care at every stage of life.

If you’re looking for a veterinarian in Abilene, Texas (or anywhere else), here’s a checklist of 8 important things to consider.

How to Find the Best Veterinarian

Chances are you won’t just stumble upon the best veterinarian in your city. The process will require some research on your part, but your efforts are worth it.

After all, doesn’t your pet deserve the best?

As you begin your search, keep the following factors in mind.

1. Accredited by the AAHA

Your search should begin with clinics that are accredited by the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association).

This means they’ve met or exceeded over 900 standards of safety and quality care. The accreditation process is rigorous and ensures the practice uses the best equipment and provides the best possible care for its patients.

You can use the AAHA’s hospital locator to find an accredited clinic near you.

2. Testimonials & Word-of-Mouth

National accreditation is a great place to start, but don’t underestimate the power of personal recommendations too.

If you’re new to the area (or dissatisfied with your current vet), ask friends and co-workers where they take their pets for medical care. You might also visit a local animal shelter or rescue center and see which vets they recommend.

For more unbiased reviews, you can always visit Yelp, Google, or the clinic’s testimonials page to see what past clients have to say about their experience. If everyone else was happy with the vet, chances are you will be too.

3. Ask for a Tour of the Clinic

Any good veterinarian should be proud to show you his or her clinic.

To get a better feel for the practice, ask for a tour of the facilities. This will give you the chance to meet the staff and see the treatment rooms and equipment for yourself.

What kind of vibe do you get from the doctor and the staff? How do the animals currently in the clinic look and behave? Does the hospital smell clean and look well-organized?

If humans and animals appear comfortable, safe, and happy, you’ve likely found a great veterinary practice.

4. Consider Relevant Specialties

Most veterinarians are trained to care for many different types of animals. It’s also common for them to branch out and specialize in a particular breed or species.

For example, some vets specialize in birds or exotic animals. Others focus on large animals like horses and cattle.

Some vets also specialize in certain procedures or types of care. There are veterinary nutritionists that create specific diet plans for different illnesses. Others specialize in soft tissue injuries, orthopedics, or other types of surgeries.

Depending on what type of animals you own and their medical conditions, you’ll want to find a vet who’s familiar with the species and its needs.

5. Friendly & Professional Staff

Your initial contact with the animal hospital reveals a lot about the practice.

When you make that first phone call, is the person who answers warm and friendly? Is it easy to schedule an appointment or have your questions answered?

What about when you visit the clinic in person? Does everyone seem relaxed, pleasant, and professional?

Pay close attention to how the staff treats its patients–and each other. Are these the type of people you would trust your pet’s care to in an emergency situation?

6. Compatible Philosophies

We all have our own set of ethics, values, and morals–veterinarians included.

How do you personally feel about such topics as spaying and neutering, euthanasia, and cancer care? How would you feel if your pet developed a chronic or life-threatening illness?

It’s important to find a veterinarian whose philosophies align with your own. In a stressful situation with a beloved pet, the last thing you want to worry about is someone forcing an idea or a treatment plan that you don’t agree with.

Even if you don’t agree 100%, any veterinarian you choose should be respectful of your feelings and factor that into important decisions about your pet.

7. Transparent Pricing Policies

There’s nothing worse than sticker shock that comes with unexpected vet bills.

The best veterinarians will clearly outline their pricing policies for different services and procedures. He or she should sit down with you and provide a detailed estimate of costs before rendering care.

Does the clinic offer payment plans, a line of credit, or other options? Bills can quickly add up, so you want to ensure you’re able to pay for the care your pet needs in a way that works for both parties.

8. Genuine Concern for Your Pet

The majority of veterinarians choose their profession because they genuinely love animals.

This attitude should be evident from the moment you and your pet first meet the new vet. Watch closely as he or she interacts with your pet. Do you detect warmth, patience, kindness, and gentleness?

The best veterinarians view their practice as more than a money-making enterprise. Their primary motivation is love and concern for animals–and this attitude should be obvious to you.

Where to Find the Best Veterinarian in Abilene, Texas

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to choosing the right vet for your pet.

If you’re searching for a veterinarian in Abilene, Texas, you can be sure that Windmill Animal Hospital ticks all the right boxes.

We invite you to contact us anytime to ask questions or set up a tour of our clinic. We look forward to meeting you and your pet!