Veterinarians dedicate their lives to caring for our animals, but their jobs can be challenging. From diagnosing complex conditions to handling stressed or aggressive pets, those in vet jobs face emotional and physical demands on a daily basis. As a pet owner, you can play a significant role in making your vet’s job easier – while also improving your pet’s health care.

Here are a few practical suggestions to support your vet and foster a top-notch partnership, writes Vanessa Rogers on behalf of Executive Placements.

1. Keep accurate records

One of the best things you can do is maintain an up-to-date record of your pet’s medical history – including everything from vaccinations, medications, and surgeries, to any unusual symptoms that have picked up. When switching clinics or visiting a new vet, bring a copy of these records. Clear, accurate information can help your vet make informed decisions quickly, as well as curtailing the need for unnecessary tests and treatments.

2. Be honest and detailed

Veterinarians are not mind readers. Be upfront about your pet’s behaviour, diet, and lifestyle. Even small details – such as a change in appetite or a new environment, i.e. if you have recently moved house –can be medically relevant. Don’t withhold information out of embarrassment, or fear of judgement. Vets require the full picture to offer the best possible care to your cat, dog, lizard, or goat. 

3. Train your pet for vet visits

A pet that is calm and well-behaved at the clinic is much easier to examine. Start by getting your pet comfortable at home with certain handling elements that are part-and-parcel of a vet visit – i.e. touching their paws, looking in their ears, nose, and mouth, and practising the gentle restraint needed during a vet visit. Use positive reinforcement to reward calm behaviour during car rides. If necessary, ask your vet about fear-free techniques or sedatives for extremely anxious pets. 

4. Respect appointment times (early is best!)

Veterinary clinics tend to run on extremely tight schedules. Arriving on time – or even a few minutes early – assists in keeping the entire day’s appointments on track, and reduces stress for everyone involved (staff members, and other owners). If you’re running late or need to cancel, call the receptionist as soon as possible. This level of courtesy helps clinics to accommodate emergencies, and to reschedule patients when necessary, as efficiently as is possible. 

5. Ask questions – but also listen attentively

Good communication is a two-way street. Ask your vet questions if you’re unsure about a diagnosis, medication, or procedure. However, also be open to the professional advice that they are kind enough to share with you, and trust what their experience elicits. Avoid relying solely on internet sources when it comes to your pet’s health, as this may lead to misinformation or misplaced concerns.

6. Follow through precisely with care instructions

When your vet prescribes medication or a treatment plan, follow it exactly, according to the instructions received. Skipping doses, feeding inappropriate meals, or delaying follow-up visits can make your pet’s condition worse and frustrate both you and the veterinary team. If you’re having trouble managing a treatment, let the clinic know – they may have a few helpful tips or alternative solutions to suggest. 

7. Be kind to the onsite staff

Veterinary teams often face long hours, emotional cases, and demanding workloads. A simple “thank you” and a friendly, grateful attitude goes a long way. Treating the receptionist, technicians, and veterinarians with kindness creates a positive environment – and will also strengthen your partnership with them when it comes to your pet, or farm animal’s, optimum care.

By taking these steps, pet owners can reduce stress for everyone involved – and ensure that their furry (or, possibly, scaly) companions receive the best level of care. A little consideration and preparation can go a long way towards supporting those in vet jobs to help keep our beloved animals both healthy, and happy.