Finding a veterinarian to take care of your furry family member can be as stressful as finding a doctor for yourself. It can also be extremely difficult.

The simplest and most effective way to immediately narrow the search is to find a veterinarian who has been AAHA accredited. AAHA stands for American Animal Hospital Association. This is a self-policing and elective association for small animal veterinarians. The veterinarians that have gone through the process to become AAHA certified have met certain standards for equipment, staff training, quality of care, and medical record keeping.

Becoming AAHA certified is neither easy nor cheap, however it does show that your veterinarian wishes to uphold certain standards. There is no such thing as AAHA for large animal veterinarians.

After narrowing the field, you can further refine your options through word of mouth. However, a word of caution is called for here. We all have different expectations for our animals. Some people are minimalists, and for them shot clinics and cursory check-ups with a regular veterinarian may be fine. Their opinions of higher quality veterinary services will all be filtered through their expectations. Luckily, if you have already narrowed your field to only AAHA accredited facilities, you have also narrowed the people who would be familiar with these veterinary hospitals.

Like minded people will find that they gravitate towards the same Veterinarians. Ask the people at the local dog training club, at the dog park, or walking their dogs. These people will often think more highly of their pets than people who have back yard dogs that are not actively engaged with the family on a regular basis.

Visit the facility. Is it clean, does the staff greet you when you walk in the door? Does the veterinarian stock high quality diets and flea and tick products. Would a staff member be willing to speak with you if you had questions? Do things seem to be moving efficiently, even if busy? Are the employees friendly and engaged. If you brought your pet, do they approach or speak to your pet?

Lastly, make an appointment and meet the staff. Is the technician friendly, well-informed and engaged? Do you feel welcome? Is your pet made welcome? Are important questions asked about your pet’s lifestyle. Is information given freely and questions answered clearly?

When the veterinarian enters the room does he or she greet you and introduce him/herself? Do they greet your pet? Do they allow you to speak and do they listen to what you have to say? Do they answer your questions fully and succinctly? Are they focused on your pet and your pet’s needs?

Even the best facility will have veterinarians whose personality doesn’t match your needs. But if everything else seems right, try another veterinarian. Everyone has different needs and communication styles. Don’t be afraid to look for what you want.

A good veterinarian does not work in a vacuum, and a well run friendly hospital often tells you all you need to know.