Having confidence in your veterinarian is paramount to help make sure you are doing the right thing for your pet. That confidence comes from knowing more of what is considered your veterinarian’s point of view.
Therefore, to assist you in understanding the core of some of the issues and perils faced by today’s recognized veterinarians in their practice, just have a look at the below facts.
- Vets are very concerned about you and your animals, whether it is for the sake of your pet, you or even their business. They desperately want to see:
- A successful outcome
- Healthy patients
- Satisfied clients
They are fully aware that the only possible way the “vet-owner” relationship can be achieved successfully, is if the attention is directed to the concerns of all parties involved (i.e. you, your Pet and the Doctor involved) and that those concerns are always respectively taken into consideration.
- In today’s litigious society, Vets are rightfully justified in the concern of a suit or legal action. Add to that concern the fear of being summoned before a Veterinary regulatory board of the State. The chances of being sued or summoned before a regulatory board are slim. However, that does not change your vet’s awareness of the possibility that it could happen.
- The requirements and expenses necessary to become a Veterinarian are unquestionably significant; now add to that expense, the exorbitant costs of running a successful practice. Most Veterinarians feel they are compensated fairly and justly in accordance with the time and effort they have invested in their education coupled with their somber financial investment in the business.
It is also true, that most Vets are sympathetic of the financial burden that medical expenses bring to their clients, and sometimes feel guilty for doing so. Understand that most Veterinarians are devoted to animal care and will do whatever is necessary (irrespective of immediate financial remuneration) to restore the health and well-being of their patient.
- Your vet has no way of knowing your perceptions or opinions on certain situations unless voiced. If you refuse to share any helpful information, your relationship with your veterinarian cannot merge successfully, this will have a negative effects for your pet in the long run. Communication is the key.
- Vets hardly tolerate mistakes (their own or others, and likely, you don’t either). But you already guessed it: all doctors, whether physicians or vets, are Human Beings and subject to making mistakes!
Note: Vets also expect the owners to make mistakes. Sometimes they are predictable, so when the Vet shows a way to avoid them. It is a forgone conclusion that the medical advice is followed.
If your choice of Veterinarian is causing you doubt, first look into yourself, maybe you’re not giving your veterinarian the adequate trust, open-mindedness and good communication that is required on your part. Your vet will always try to do his/her best under all circumstances. What must be understood by both parties is that it is about your pet, so the goal is to help you.