The best time to choose a vet is before your pet is sick. Asking the right questions upfront tells you how a clinic works, what it costs, and how it will treat you in a crisis. Use this list on the phone, by email, or at a first wellness visit.
It is part of our guide to choosing the right vet.
Experience and services
- Which species do you treat regularly? (Essential if you have an exotic pet.)
- How many vets work here, and can I usually see the same one?
- Which services do you offer in-house: X-rays, ultrasound, blood tests, dentistry, surgery?
- When do you refer to specialists, and which specialists do you work with?
- Do any of your vets have a special interest, such as cats, dentistry or senior pets?
Appointments and emergencies
- What are your opening hours, including weekends?
- How quickly can you see a sick pet? Do you keep same-day slots?
- Do you accept walk-ins? (See walk-in vs appointment vets.)
- Who do I call after hours or on public holidays?
- Can I book appointments online or by WhatsApp or text?
Costs and payment
- What does a standard consultation cost?
- Do you provide written estimates before treatment?
- Do you offer payment plans, wellness plans or package pricing?
- Which payment methods and pet insurance providers do you accept?
- How are emergency and out-of-hours fees charged?
For more on prices, see our vet costs guide.
Surgery, anaesthesia and pain
- Who monitors my pet under anaesthesia, and what equipment do you use?
- Do you recommend pre-anaesthetic blood tests?
- How do you manage pain during and after procedures?
- Will someone update me during and after surgery?
Communication and records
- How do you share test results: phone, message or an online portal?
- Do you send vaccine and checkup reminders?
- Can I get copies of my pet’s records and vaccination certificates easily?
- How do you handle prescription refills?
Approach to care
- How do you reduce stress for anxious pets? (Particularly important for cats.)
- How do you discuss treatment options when cost is a concern?
What good answers sound like
Good clinics answer clearly and without irritation. They offer estimates, explain monitoring, describe how they reduce stress, and have a clear emergency plan. Vague answers about costs or after-hours care are worth noting. Compare your notes with our list of signs of a good veterinarian.
Related guides
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