Steps on Choosing a Vet

Determining Your Veterinary Needs

 * 1) Keep your type of pet in mind. Not all vets will treat all species. Make sure the vet has experience with your species of pet. For instance, even if a vet has a very good reputation as a canine vet, this is useless if you own a rabbit, because the two species are very different.
 * 2) *Most vet clinics are happy to treat 'companion animals,' which is another way of saying cats and dogs. If you own rabbits, some vets class them as 'exotic' animals and may not be able to treat them.
 * 3) *If you own a pet such as rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, or rats, always ask before registering if the vets are experienced with that species. A veterinarian should have special training in the species and have practice treating them.
 * 4) *Ideally, chose a practice with that has a vet who is a specialist in the species, or is happy to treat them. Some vets have a special interest in rabbits but without having extra qualifications in exotic animals. These vets have often gone to the trouble of learning more about the species but haven't taken exams on treating the species, and will do a good job by your pet.
 * 5) *Consider a single-species vet. If your have a cat, then you may not want it stressed by dogs in the waiting area. It is increasingly common to find single species clinics, such as "cat only" clinics.
 * 6) Consider practicality. There is little use in registering with a perfect practice if they are a two or three hour drive away. In an emergency situation you may not have two or three hours' time to spare. Always consider how quickly you can get to the practice in the event of an emergency.
 * 7) Decide what services you need your vet to provide. If you have a low income, then cost may be a deciding factor. If your pet has a very specific health issue then you will need a vet that has the equipment, and knowledge, to treat that issue.
 * 8) *If you have a vet school in your community the care there is often cheaper than at a private practice. A small animal teaching hospital still provides excellent care under trained supervision, but it'll be more affordable.
 * 9) *Be aware that lower fees are usually only achievable if the practice does not invest as heavily in modern equipment and state of the art facilities. Be aware that more sophisticated and well-equipped clinics have to finance the equipment through higher fees, so if your priority is the pet has access to an on-site MRI scanner then be prepared to pay for the privilege.
 * 10) *Factors you may want to consider include the level of in-house facilities (blood machines, lab work, x-rays, ultrasound, MRI or CT scanners), location, highly-qualified specialists on site, overnight care, emergency care provision, ease of parking, ease of getting an appointment, and also more emotional aspects such as if your pet likes the vet.

Source: http://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-Vet