10 things to check before hiring a vet
TL;DR: Choosing the right vet is crucial for your pet’s health. Check their qualifications, location, emergency services, facilities, costs, and whether they’re registered with the RCVS. Read reviews from other pet owners and ensure they offer the services your pet needs. Don’t rush the decision.
Introduction
Finding the right vet for your pet is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet owner. Your vet becomes your partner in keeping your dog, cat, or small animal healthy and happy. But not all vets are the same. Some specialise in specific animals. Others have better equipment or offer more services. Before you book that first appointment, there’s quite a bit to consider. You want someone qualified, trustworthy, and genuinely good with animals. This guide walks you through everything you should check before hiring a vet.
Is Your Vet Actually Qualified?
The RCVS (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons) registers all legitimate UK vets. Check their online register before booking. You’ll find the vet’s full qualifications, registration status, and any complaints history. This takes five minutes and gives you real peace of mind. Don’t assume because someone has a surgery that they’re properly qualified.
Look for additional qualifications too. Some vets train further in specific areas like dentistry or orthopaedics. These extra skills might matter if your pet has particular health needs.
What Services Does the Practice Actually Offer?
Different vets offer different services. Some provide routine care only. Others offer surgery, dental work, physiotherapy, and behaviour support. Think about your pet’s likely needs. Will you need dental cleaning? What about emergency surgery? Make sure the practice covers what you’ll actually use. You don’t want to discover mid-crisis that they don’t do the thing you need.
How’s the Location and Opening Hours?
Distance and convenience matter more than you’d think. If the vet is too far away, you’ll avoid visiting when your pet needs help. Check their opening hours against your schedule. Do they open early enough? Stay open late? What about weekends? Keep their address handy for emergencies.
Some vets now offer online consultations. That’s brilliant for minor issues or follow-up appointments. Ask whether they provide this service.
What’s the Emergency Cover Like?
Things go wrong at 2 AM on a Sunday. What happens then? Some practices handle their own emergencies. Others refer you elsewhere. Some join local emergency networks. Understand exactly how emergency care works. Get the out-of-hours number saved in your phone. Prices for emergency visits are usually higher, so ask what to expect.
Have You Read Honest Reviews From Other Pet Owners?
Check Google reviews, Trustpilot, and local Facebook groups for honest feedback. Real people share real experiences. Look for patterns, not just single comments. If everyone mentions long waits, that’s worth knowing. If reviews praise the staff’s gentleness with anxious pets, that matters. Read recent reviews most carefully, as practices change over time.
What Are the Actual Costs?
Vet fees vary considerably across the UK. A standard consultation costs roughly £30 to £60. Vaccinations, dental work, and surgery cost far more. Ask for a price list. Some practices publish these online. If you can’t find prices easily, that’s a red flag. Unexpected bills are stressful when your pet’s unwell. Know roughly what things cost beforehand.
Ask about payment options too. Do they accept payment plans? Pet insurance? Some surgeries now offer wellness plans that spread costs.
Does the Practice Feel Right for Your Pet?
Visit in person before committing. How do staff interact with animals? Do they seem calm and kind? Does the waiting area look clean? Are other pet owners happy? Your gut feeling matters. You’re trusting them with something precious. If you don’t feel comfortable, keep looking.
What’s Their Approach to Treatment?
Chat with the vet about their philosophy. Do they prefer preventative care? Are they evidence-based in their recommendations? Do they explain things clearly without using too much jargon? A good vet listens to you and answers questions properly. They won’t push unnecessary treatments or make you feel rushed.
Do They Have Modern Equipment?
Proper facilities matter for good care. Look for in-house laboratory testing. Digital X-ray equipment. Surgical facilities. These tools help vets diagnose problems accurately and quickly. Outdated equipment can mean your pet waits longer for answers or gets referred elsewhere.
Conclusion
Choosing a vet deserves real thought. Check their RCVS registration. Read reviews. Ask about costs and services. Visit the practice. Trust your instincts about whether they’re right for your pet. A good vet partnership lasts years. It’s worth getting right from the start. Ready to find your perfect vet? Search our free UK directory to find qualified vets near you today.
FAQ
Q: Can I change vets if I’m not happy?
A: Yes, absolutely. You can switch whenever you want. Ask your current vet to transfer your pet’s records to your new practice.
Q: Should I use the same vet as my neighbours?
A: Not necessarily. What works for someone else might not suit you. Choose based on your own research and needs.
Q: Are private vets better than charity ones?
A: Not necessarily. Both can be excellent. Check individual practices on their merits, not ownership model.
Q: What qualifications should I look for?
A: Look for BVetMed or BVSC degrees. Additional certificates in specialist areas are bonuses. Check the RCVS register.
Q: How often should I switch vets?
A: You shouldn’t need to. Stay with one practice for continuity of care. Switch only if you’re genuinely unhappy.