Your pets do get sick and while some ailments can resolve on their own or can be treated with homemade fixes, there are times when the ailment is best treated by a veterinarian. To keep your pet safe and make sure that you are accommodated for emergencies, it's important that you find a good veterinary clinic before you even need one. But would you know which one suits your pet the best? Here are tips you can use:

Ask for references from people who have pets

If you have no idea where to find a veterinary clinic, begin by asking family members, neighbors or friends who have pets. If their pets are healthy and happy or have pets with recurring conditions, there's a good chance that they use the services of a veterinary clinic. You could also use local phone or online directories to find veterinary clinics in your area. Consider proximity so you could quickly bring your pet in should an emergency arise.

Personally check the veterinary clinic

Before you commit to one clinic, visit each of your choices and ask for a tour of the place. A veterinary clinic should be clean, organized and well-lit. Check out the lab equipment, cages, examination and operating tables, shelves and medical equipment. Ask what types of services are offered and what procedures are available that your pet might need. Watch out for warning signs such as unhygienic practices, dirty floors, windows and cages, old equipment and unprofessional staff. If you want a veterinary clinic that suits your pet the best, it should be a place where you can confidently bring your pets for a checkup and be assured that they will be well taken care of.

Work with a doctor you're comfortable with

Talk to the vet who will be in charge of keeping your pet healthy. It's critical that there is good communication between you and the doctor so you can readily ask questions and air your concerns. Your pet should also be comfortable with the vet. If you like the way he/she treats or handles your pet, the clinic may be the one that suits your pet the best.

Make sure you will be working with professionals

There is nothing worse than having your pet treated by an untrained and unlicensed vet. To ensure your pet's safety, make sure that the doctor/s and other medical staff that will be treating them are licensed and have the proper training and background.

In the U.S. and Canada, many veterinary clinics and hospitals are accredited by the AAHA or American Animal Hospital Association. An accreditation is a good indication that the clinic has met set quality standards of animal care. It's also a good assurance that you and your pet will only be dealing with professionals and thus can expect a high quality of care.

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Finding a veterinary clinic is often one of your first concerns as a pet owner. Find out how to know which one suits your pet best.