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Choosing a Veterinarian for Your Chihuahua

If you thought choosing your Chihuahua was hard, just wait until you try to choose a veterinarian to care for your Chihuahua. This is much like selecting a doctor for yourself or your child – and there is much to consider.

The first thing that you want to look for in a veterinarian is whether or not they have experience with small dogs, and more specifically with Chihuahuas. Not all veterinarians are qualified to care for small dogs – even if they are licensed veterinarians. They simply do not have the necessary experience. This is the first thing that you should look for in a veterinarian.

Next, consider how close the veterinarian is to your home. Your Chihuahua may be very used to traveling in the car, but if he isn’t, having a veterinarian that is located a ways from home could be an issue. Next, consider the office hours of the veterinarian – are those hours convenient for you? Most veterinarians keep bankers hours, but are available after hours and on weekends for emergencies – but this isn’t true of all veterinarians. Make it your business to find out.

Call the office and make an appointment. Note how the staff treats you on the phone and how professional they are. When you visit the office, again, note how the staff handles you and your Chihuahua. Check the office for cleanliness, and ask for a tour of the facility.

Be present for your dog’s examination. You want to see how the veterinarian handles your dog as well, and how thorough that examination is. Is the veterinarian rushed? Does he seem agitated with your Chihuahua? Is he doing all that he can to make your Chihuahua happy during the examination? If not, you might want to see a different veterinarian.

Ask the veterinarian where he went to school. Ask about his licenses, certifications, and memberships. Ask about his experience with small dogs and Chihuahuas in particular. Ask how emergencies are handled, and how payment is expected. In most cases, payment is expected when services are rendered. The only exception to this may be if an emergency arises and you are an established client.

You want the best care possible for your beloved Chihuahua – the length and quality of his life depends on it. Take your time when looking for a veterinarian, and be sure to check with the licensing agency in your state to find out if there are any complaints against a veterinarian that you are considering.