If you are a pet lover, choosing a veterinarian can seem as difficult as finding a great pediatrician for your kids, which is why you need to know what to look for. In addition to finding a pet hospital near your home, finding veterinarians who connect with your family and know how to care for your animal offers peace of mind—especially when your pet starts experiencing health issues. Here are three qualities to look for in veterinarians.

3 Qualities of Top Veterinarians

The Right Credentials

In addition to having a veterinary degree from an accredited university, great veterinarians should also be involved with their local veterinary association so they stay up to date on policy changes, medicine dosage recommendations, and new technology. If possible, also look for a veterinary clinic accredited by the AAHA, which is an organization that evaluates clinics based on over 900 different metrics.   

Great Communication Skills

Look for veterinarians with great communication and interpersonal skills to make your next appointment easy and enjoyable. When you visit with your veterinarian about your pet, pay attention to how you feel when you are talking with the doctor and whether or not they seem keyed-in to the appointment. If you can tell that the provider is dedicated to your animal’s care and easy to talk to, then consider having your animal become a permanent patient.

A Commitment to Continuing Education 

As you visit different veterinarians, talk with them about their commitment to continuing education. Ask whether or not they have attended workshops and seminars recently to learn new surgical techniques, and talk with them about which new pieces of equipment could improve diagnostic and treatment care for your animal.

Is your furry family member due for a checkup? Ohana Veterinary Hospital in Honolulu, HI, offers everything from routine exams and immunizations to behavioral counseling, dental services, and in-office surgical procedures. With a team of professionals dedicated to your animal’s health and happiness, this veterinary clinic might become your pet’s favorite place to visit. For more information about their services, explore their website or call (808) 845-1762.