Finding the best Richardson veterinarians for your pet should not be a last minute task. Whether you are moving to the area, getting a pet for the first time, or considering a veterinary practice change, it is important to find a veterinarian before you actually need one. There is nothing scarier than having a sick animal and rushing through an important decision in order to get the care you need. Rather, it gives piece of mind to have a veterinarian practice lined up for when you need them. Even better is to make an introductory appointment so that your pet is familiar with his or her new veterinarian before there is an emergency, and a health history and relationship can get started.

Need to find a veterinarian? Breckinridge Park Animal Hospital is one of the best Richardson veterinarians in Richardson! Call (972) 690-6900

To Find a Veterinarian, Prepare Questions and Priorities

To find a veterinarian practice that suits you and your pet’s needs, consider the following questions. Not only will this will help you prioritize the type of practice that is right for you, but also give you a guideline for questions to ask as you narrow down the choices.

• Are office hours outside of regular business hours required to accommodate your schedule?
• Can appointments be made electronically? By phone?
• Is the office large or small? Will your pet always visit with the same veterinarian? If a solo practice, who covers the practice when the veterinarian is not available?
• Are the veterinarians and staff compassionate and take the time to answer all of your questions? Are they friendly and personable to both you and your pet?
• Is there cost transparency? What forms of payment are accepted? Is the practice willing to work with you on a payment plan for high ticket procedures?
• Are they a provider for your pet insurance carrier (if applicable)?
• How are overnight patients cared for?
• Is there a laboratory on site, or is lab work sent out?
• Is other testing equipment (x-rays, etc.) available, or are you sent to another location?
• Does your pet have any specific health concerns that require specialized care? Does the practice accommodate these specialties, or are they referred out?
• Is boarding and/or grooming available?
• What professional affiliations and certifications do the veterinarian, office and staff members have?
• Can you tour the facility, including the back areas?
• Is the waiting room a safe place for your pet? Are dogs and cats together, or separate?
• Does the practice support local shelters and rescues?
• Is the veterinarian open to and knowledgeable about alternative and holistic treatments and nutrition?
• Does the veterinarian and staff use up-to-date technology and care practices?
• Are emergencies handled at the location, or referred out to area emergency clinics? What is the procedure for after-hour emergencies?

Once you have determined the qualities you desire in a practice, it’s time to find a veterinarian that displays those characteristics.

6 Resources to Find a Veterinarian

Here are some resources to look at:

1. Friends and neighbors
2. Breed clubs, breed rescues, and other special interest groups
3. Schools, local organizations and/or events with veterinary practice sponsors
4. Internet review sites, such as Yelp and Angie’s List. Just keep in mind that a disgruntled client is more likely to post an online review than a happy client.
5. Social media neighborhood apps and sites, such as Next Door or community Facebook groups
6. If you are moving, your current veterinarian may be able to refer you to one in your new location.

Were you able to get a few promising names of qualified veterinarians in Richardson? Peruse the practice websites and get an idea of the doctors’ qualifications and pet care ideology. If you like what you see, schedule a time to visit the locations so that you can meet the doctors and staff, and have any questions and concerns answered. You should be given a tour of the facility, and the staff should make you feel comfortable and welcome. Also, you will see if getting to the practice’s location is convenient, and parking is ample.

All of that time, research and information gathering will help you find a veterinarian that you feel is best qualified to give excellent medical care and support for your beloved pet. The goal is to establish a strong, trusting relationship between veterinarian, pet owner/client, and patient.  However, it is important to note that if, at any time, you feel uncomfortable with your decision, it might be time to go back to the drawing board to find a veterinarian that better suits you and your pet’s needs. You are your pet’s best advocate, and he/she deserves great care.

Contact the Best Richardson Veterinarians

Do you need to find a veterinarian in Richardson? Breckinridge Park Animal Hospital is one of the best in the Richardson area. Serving Richardson, Plano, Wylie, Murphy and Sachse, BPAH is AAHA accredited, and highly rated by our clients. Our friendly staff and compassionate, highly trained veterinarians are focused on helping pets and their families, and offering the highest level of care. Call (972) 690-6900 or click here to schedule an appointment.

Breckinridge Park Animal Hospital serves the northeast Dallas suburban area. We provide the community with some of the best veterinarians in Richardson, Garland, Plano, Murphy, Wylie, Sachse and Mesquite.

This information is not a substitute for professional veterinary medical advice. Prior to starting any new treatment or questions regarding an animal’s medical condition, always seek the advice of your veterinarian.