Choosing a veterinarian

If you are reading Puppies chew shoes, don't they? on a Kindle, this post goes with Chapter 1.

Many dog owners know only one dog professional ... their vet. Make certain that you trust yours enough to put your puppy's life in her hands. To help choose the right vet for you and your puppy:

1. Look into an accredited American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) vet clinic near you. I recommend AAHA vets because as a service dog trainer, I have accompanied families nationwide on that first puppy wellness visit. Across the board, AAHA accredited vets were consistent in their knowledge of veterinary medicine and offered appropriate recommendations for socialization, toys, training, etc. Because they have to follow standards set down by the accrediting agency, the vets seem to be those who continue their education and are, therefore, up on the latest best practices.
2. Consider an integrative/holistic vet. Learn all about this approach to keeping your dog healthy for life at the Veterinary Institute of Integrative Medicine. 
3. For complex medical issues or for a second opinion, know where to find local veterinary specialists. Start with the AVMA American Board of Veterinary Specialists.

When you take your puppy the first time, make sure your puppy is comfortable with your vet. Personally, I also want friendly, helpful people at the front desk and I want to be able to call my vet with questions and not be put off.

To better understand your dog's health issues, the one of the best online resource for articles and videos is Dr. Karen Becker's Healthy Pets website.

Keep that smile on your puppy's face with good health for life!