A veterinarian is a qualified doctor specialising in pet and animal medicine. Not all veterinarians offer the same services so it is important to consider the right vet clinic or surgery for your pet.

Animal clinics may specialise in the care and treatment of certain animals, whereas other vet clinics offer broader veterinarian services covering all types of aminals and pets. The nature of the illness your pet has will determine the type of services you require. Depending on the nature of your pet’s illness, you may need to seek out a veterinary hospital instead of a local vet if your pet requires urgent or specialist attention.

Word of mouth is a common way of finding a vet who is known to be professional and trustworthy, or if you are new to an area you may seek advise from a local community directory where veterinary services are listed along with numerous other specialist trades and services. An important point to consider when choosing a vet is how your pet reacts to the vet, as you will want to keep your pet calm and as stress-free as possible. Check for signs that your pet is at ease with the doctor, whether the doctor treats your pet with care and respect and how the other staff at the surgery or clinic greet you and treat you and your pet.