Unlike humans, who visit a range of healthcare specialists, your pet has a single health provider who is not only a general practitioner, but also a dentist, nutritionist, ophthalmologist, reproductive specialist, cardiologist, weight counselor, exercise coach, psychiatrist, pediatrician and geriatrician. Clearly, a veterinarian is a very important person in your pet’s life! Here’s how to get the most from your relationship with a vet.

Find the right vet for you. In addition to choosing a qualified professional with a clean and tidy facility, find someone you communicate well with and who cares about your pet. The clinic should be conveniently located, and keep hours that can accommodate your schedule.

Try to be consistent. The best healthcare comes from a professional who knows your pet’s background and medical history. Once you find a vet, try to visit only that clinic, except for emergency care (when you may need to visit an animal hospital or after-hours clinic). If you move and need to change vets, be sure to transfer your pet’s records.

Show up on time. Veterinary clinics are busy, professional places. Try to be on time for your appointment, just as you would for your own doctor, to ensure that the clinic’s schedule continues to run smoothly for you and other clients. When you arrive, let the receptionist know that you and your pet are there.

Follow good “petiquette.” Although your pet may simply be there for a routine check-up, try to remember that other animals may be shy or feeling poorly. Bring your cat or other small animals in a portable kennel and keep your dog on a leash and close to you at all times. Prevent your animal from visiting with the other patients. If your pet is rambunctious, easily excited or very nervous, you might want to wait away from the other animals or outside until it is your turn.

Get an annual. Just like people, pets need regular vaccinations and physical check-ups to stay healthy. Changes to an animal’s health can happen quickly, and animals try to hide sickness; a vet will spot health issues that you may not see. Be sure to book an appointment at least once a year, or as advised by your vet. Older or special needs pets may need more frequent visits.

Keep good records. Your vet will keep a file on your pet, but do keep track of any care the animal might have received elsewhere - for example, if you visit an emergency clinic or an out-of-town vet. If your vet recommends a specialist (an animal oncologist or ophthalmologist, for example), check with that clinic to see if they will send treatment notes to your vet for their files. Also note any natural remedies or other non-prescription treatments you’ve administered, such as flea remedies, as well as any changes to your pet’s food or exercise routine.

Note your questions. Record questions or observations regarding new or unusual behaviours, such as scratching, lethargy, compulsive grooming, aggression, vomiting, anxiety or changes in eating, drinking, sleeping, bathroom or playing habits.

Follow instructions. It’s important to follow directions regarding the timing, dose and duration of any medication that’s prescribed. It’s also important to follow feeding, watering and exercise instructions carefully for an animal who is sick or had an operation. Be sure to schedule any follow-up appointments your vet recommends.

Ask for directions. It can be hard to administer medication to some animals, as anyone who’s ever tried to “pill” a cat knows. Don’t be afraid to ask the best method to administer medication. If you feel uncomfortable with the technique, ask the vet to demonstrate, or ask if the medication is available in another form. Be sure you fully understand any special directions before you leave the clinic.

Know your numbers. Always keep the number of an emergency clinic or pet hospital handy. Be sure to give your vet’s and nearby animal hospital’s phone numbers, as well as your own contact info, to anyone caring for your pet, including dog walkers.