How to Choose a Vet or Pet Clinic for Your Dog or Cat
By the TownTrove team
Pets cannot tell you what is wrong, so a vet you trust is essential. The best time to find one is before an emergency, when you can visit calmly and ask questions.
Check qualifications
A qualified veterinarian in India holds a B.V.Sc. and A.H. degree and should be registered with the Veterinary Council. Ask if the clinic has a vet on duty at all times or only during certain hours.
Emergency and after-hours care
Ask whether the clinic handles emergencies at night or can refer you to a 24-hour animal hospital. Save that number in your phone. Poisoning, heatstroke and road accidents need help within minutes.
Look at the facilities
- Clean waiting and treatment areas, with separate space for sick animals if possible.
- In-house lab tests or a tie-up with a diagnostic lab.
- X-ray or ultrasound facility, or a clear referral option.
- Calm handling of nervous animals.
Keep records
Ask for a vaccination card and keep it updated. Note the dates for deworming, rabies and other vaccinations. Many boarding facilities and groomers will ask to see the card.
Groomers and boarding
Before leaving your pet at a groomer or boarding facility, visit it. Check cleanliness, space, ventilation, how many animals one person looks after, and whether you can get photo or video updates. Ask what happens if your pet falls sick while staying there.