Not Just a Vet... A Friend

Photo By: Kelsey Pecsek

Veterinarians are hardly a horse person's best friend.  They are often like the proverbial dentist.  Nobody wants to see the dentist.  You see him (or her) twice a year for routine work that is uncomfortable, and then sporadically throughout the whole year for unfortunate incidents that usually cost lots of money.

The thing people forget is: Vets are people too!  They are just people trying to make a living, and most have a sincere desire to help animals... yours in particular.

It is important to develop a good working relationship with your vet.  You need to feel comfortable with him or her, so that when you have a question that you may be reserved about asking... you ask!  A vet can't read minds.  Vets are typically very willing to explain things, but sometimes you have to ask.  They don't always cover what you're thinking about, but it isn't because they don't want to.  They've seen 5 colics this week (among other appointments) so things may get a little gray.  Help them out!

The last important aspect of a good working relationship is openness.  While you may feel hesitant about explaining a horse care mistake to a stranger vet, it is easy to admit to a vet who you know well.  And when the time comes for the vet to bring up an error you are not aware of, they will feel less reluctant too.

All in all, a good working relationship is imperative to successful vet-client situations.  Send your vet a Christmas card.  Bake the office cookies.  Get to know the staff, so when you need help, they know your name.