OK, maybe the question is a bit loaded, but it is our opinion that the biggest mistake most people make is the failure to establish a good working relationship with a veterinarian. Yes, it is a veterinarian writing this page, but let's try to give you a good reason for what we think:

There are many people who either neglect to seek veterinary care for their pet, play the "do it yourself game", or just see those vets at quick-mart clinics. Then, invariably some more important concern with the pet comes along. That's when the call every veterinarian gets comes along.........

"I've never been in before, but my pet is...(insert, ill, hurt, acting funny),...
.....and I'm a little short on cash?" or
.....and I need you to see me (before your regular clients) right now!" or
.....and I'd like lots of information from you..." etc etc etc

Then, when this poor vet, who wasn't too important to this pet owner...until now, doesn't bend over sideways to satisfy the needs of this pet owner, the roof falls in! Every veterinarian has dozens of stories of how clients call wanting everything but having never given anything to create a relationship that is now sorely needed. Let's look at the other side for a minute.

I have so many great clients who have been partners with us for years. Let me tell you about Ron, or Rudy, or Sharon and a hundred other names. These people have helped keep the lights on in my place for years. When they call, my staff gives them answers. If my staff can't help, do you have to wonder if I come to the phone? Whatever information they need, they get. If they need anything from their vet, and I can provide it, it is theirs. And although none has ever asked, if circumstances were that they were a "little short", their word is all the credit they need. Why? Because we know them and they know us. With a doctor, that's the best insurance one can ever have.

So we urge all pet owners, consider the full set of benefits you want for your pet. If you are a concerned owner, find a good vet and get to know them today. That will pay big dividends down the road somewhere. Not to mention the health benefits your pet will receive in the mean time.    A few other thoughts...

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©2007 James W. Day D.V.M., P.C.