Often times when we talk about pets at home, the first thing that pops into many people’s minds are either dogs or cats. While these are the most common pets around, there are other animals that can be cared for in Singapore households. These includes birds like cockatiels, aquatic animals like goldfish and terrapins, and cute balls of fluffs like hamsters and rabbits. As part of the family, the health of these pets must be given proper attention. If your pet doesn’t have a vet yet, then this article will help you find the right veterinary clinic in Singapore.
What are the factors that you should consider when finding the right vet for your pet?
There are many veterinary clinics all over Singapore and it sure can be overwhelming to choose one for your pet. Not to worry, we got you covered! Here is a list of the factors that you should consider to find the right veterinary clinic for your pet.
1. Types of species treated
The first thing that can narrow down your search for a veterinary clinic, especially if your pet is not a dog or a cat, is to check the types of pet that a vet clinic treats. Many clinics may focus solely on treating cats and dogs, while others are able to treat a wide variety of species. If you have more than one type of pet at home, it is best to go for a clinic that can treat them all.
2. Consider the location
May pet-owners opt to go to veterinary clinics that are close to their homes. This is understandable as you would want a place that can be reached at a short amount of time since it can be inconvenient to carry your pet around and travel long distance for just for a quick consultation or in case of emergencies. In addition to location, you should also consider a veterinary clinic that has an option for parking lot pickup. This is beneficial for pet owners who have to carry big cages or strollers to transport their pet from their home to the vet clinic, which can be somewhat stressful, especially when you are bringing your pet to the vet all on your own.
3. Services and amenities provided
It is very convenient to have a veterinary clinic that offers other services onsite, such as diagnostic tests, hospitalizations, or even specialisations in dermatology, reproductive medicine, surgery, or even alternative treatments, such as acupuncture for animals. In case your pet needs extra care in these areas, you will not need to exert further efforts to find another vet that can provide whatever type of service is needed. You also will not need to carry your pet’s records and test results as everything is documented in the same clinic.
As for amenities, check if the clinic uses up to date tools and equipment. Cleanliness is also a major item to tick on your list when observing the clinic’s amenities. Remember, the vet clinic is where your dog should get treatments and not contract any other ailments.
4. Vet and staff vibes
It is important that you are able to communicate all the important information about your pet’s health to the vet and their staff. Likewise, it is crucial that you are heard and everything that you share is accounted for. Of course veterinarians will not have all the answers right there and then. If this is the case, they should validate your concerns, be honest that they do not have the answer at the moment, but also give the assurance that they can find out. If you ever feel rushed, unheard, or there are concerns that have not been addressed completely, then you may want to consider choosing another clinic. Find a clinic that has compassionate and professional staff.
5. Emergencies and overnight care
It is not impossible for emergencies to occur at an ungodly hour. There are vet clinics that stay open 24 hours and those that can take in your pets for hospitalizations if needed. It is always good to know where to get help in case the inevitable happens to your pet.
6. House calls
There may be times that our situation at home makes it impossible to bring our beloved pets to visit the their doctor for treatments. Having a veterinary clinic that can visit and provide tests and treatments for your pet at home will save your time and lessen your worries about not being able to provide the utmost care for your cherished animal.
7. Costs
Owning pets can be expensive. The fees for various veterinary services will be different from one clinic to another as these are influenced by several factors, such as the clinic’s location, the facilities available, as well as other expenses contributing to its day to day operation. Some veterinary clinics may offer treatment packages, which includes regular consultations, vaccinations, and treatments, which can be cost-effective for the budget conscious.
8. Bigger is not always better
When it comes to the size of a veterinary clinic, we may assume that those that have bigger facilities or several clinics provide the best care. The truth is, this is not a guarantee. There are many veterinary clinics that have the most advanced facilities, but have cruel practices. This is something that you should reasearch deeper into as you would not want your pets to fall into the hands of a clinic that does not look after the best interest of their clients.
9. Word of mouth
Recommendations from family and friends will be of great help when looking for a veterinary clinic in Singapore, especially when you have similar pets. Ask for information about their overall experience. If none in your close circle have pets, then doing an online research and reading reviews from other pet lovers about different vet clinics can help.
10. Accreditations and awards
Be sure that the veterinary clinic has the proper accreditations and licenses to operate. Having accreditations mean that the clinic adheres to a certain standard of veterinary practice and having awards mean that the veterinary clinic excels in demonstrating a particular specialisation.
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Dr Paws Vet Care
77 Lucky Heights, Lucky Court (next to Patisserie Cle),
Singapore 467626
+62434668
Photo credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/veterinarians-inspecting-the-eyes-of-a-dog-on-the-table-in-vet-clinic-pet-care-and-treatment-visit-a-doctor-fro-check-up–XL-6md7CE4
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