Questions to ask your vet before hiring
TL;DR: Before hiring a vet, ask about their experience, qualifications, services offered, emergency care availability, and pricing. Check their clinic facilities, ask for references, and ensure they’re registered with the RCVS. These questions help you find the right vet for your pet’s needs.
Introduction
Choosing the right vet is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet owner. Your vet becomes your partner in keeping your furry friend healthy and happy. But not all vets are the same, and finding one that’s right for you takes a bit of research. Before you book that first appointment or commit to a practice, there are some crucial questions you should ask. This guide will walk you through the essential questions to ask your vet before hiring them. Asking the right questions now can save you stress, money, and worry later on.
What qualifications and experience does your vet have?
Your vet should be registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). Ask about their specific experience with your type of pet, whether that’s dogs, cats, rabbits, or exotic animals. A vet might be brilliant with cats but less experienced with small furries.
It’s worth asking how long they’ve been practising and whether they have any special interests or certifications. Some vets specialise in surgery, dentistry, or behaviour. If your pet has specific needs, finding someone with relevant expertise matters a lot. Don’t be shy about asking these questions. Good vets are proud of their qualifications and happy to discuss them.
Which services do you offer at your practice?
Your vet’s clinic should offer the core services your pet needs. Ask what’s available on-site, such as x-rays, ultrasounds, dental care, and surgery. Some practices send samples to external labs, which can delay results and increase costs.
Check whether they offer preventative care like vaccinations, microchipping, and weight management. Ask about spaying and neutering services too. Understanding what’s available helps you plan ahead and know when you might need to travel elsewhere for specialist care.
What happens if my pet needs emergency care?
This is critical. Ask what happens outside normal surgery hours. Does the clinic stay open late? Do they offer emergency appointments? Many practices partner with out-of-hours emergency services, so check who covers your area and what the call-out fees are.
Emergency vet costs in the UK can range from £100 to £500 or more, depending on what’s needed. Knowing this in advance helps you prepare financially and understand your options if your pet gets poorly at midnight on Sunday.
How much do your services cost?
Vets aren’t cheap, so transparency matters. Ask for a price list or at least typical costs for common procedures. A standard cat check-up might cost £35 to £50, but prices vary across the country and between practices.
Discuss payment options too. Do they accept payment plans? Can you claim on pet insurance? Some practices offer health plans where you pay monthly for regular care. Understanding costs upfront prevents nasty surprises when the bill arrives.
Can you provide references or tell me about your clinic facilities?
A good vet welcomes visitors. Ask if you can tour the clinic before making a commitment. Clean, well-organised facilities are a good sign. Check that they have modern equipment and separate areas for different animals, especially for cats and dogs.
Ask whether you can speak to other pet owners who use the practice. Most vets are happy to give references. You can also check online reviews, though remember these reflect individual experiences. A few bad reviews among many positive ones is normal. Patterns of poor care or complaints about costs are more concerning.
Conclusion
Taking time to ask these questions before hiring a vet sets you up for success. You’re investing in your pet’s long-term health and wellbeing. The right vet makes all the difference when your pet’s poorly or needs important care. Don’t rush this decision. Visit practices, ask questions, and trust your instincts about whether they’re the right fit for your family. Your pet deserves excellent care, and you deserve a vet you can trust. Find a vet near you by searching our free UK directory today.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if a vet is registered with the RCVS?
A: Visit the RCVS website and search their register. You can verify any vet’s registration, and check whether they’ve had any disciplinary action taken against them.
Q: Should I stick with one vet or can I see different ones?
A: It’s best to have a main vet so they understand your pet’s history. However, seeing different vets occasionally is fine, especially for second opinions on serious issues.
Q: What’s a reasonable price for pet insurance?
A: Insurance costs £15 to £40 monthly depending on your pet’s age, breed, and coverage level. Older pets cost more to insure than young ones.
Q: Can I negotiate vet prices?
A: Some practices offer discounts for upfront payment or health plans. It’s worth asking, but don’t expect significant negotiations. Quality care has real costs.
Q: How often should I visit the vet?
A: Healthy adult pets need annual check-ups. Puppies, kittens, and senior pets (over seven years) should visit twice yearly or more frequently if needed.