Whether you are new to the Lake Charles area, have recently become a pet parent, or are just thinking about changing vets, choosing the right animal hospital is crucial. Choosing a vet is a personal decision, and it is one of the most important decisions you will ever make for your four-legged family member. It is vital to find a practice that provides exceptional care, but that is only one piece of the puzzle. Keep reading to discover some helpful advice from Country Club Veterinary Clinic and learn a bit more about choosing the right animal hospital in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Westlake, and the surrounding areas.

When to Look for a Vet

Just like people, pets need to see vets for everything from routine care to medical emergencies. If you wait until your pet is sick to look for an animal hospital, you may find it more challenging to get an appointment. You also won’t have the freedom to “shop around” to find the vet that is right for your family if your pet needs care right away. 

As an animal owner, you should find a vet in Lake Charles as soon as you welcome a pet into your home. If you have recently adopted a pet - regardless of their age and health - they should be examined by a vet as soon as possible. You may also need to search for a vet if you have a pet that develops a health problem your current veterinarian cannot treat or if you do not feel confident in the level of care your current vet provides. And of course, you should always seek out a trusted veterinarian when relocating to a new area with pets. 

How to Search for an Animal Hospital

When searching for an animal hospital or veterinarian, start by asking for recommendations from friends, family members, and trusted neighbors who have well-cared-for pets. If you are new to the area, joining local groups on social media is a great way to learn more about the animal hospitals and veterinarians in your area. 

The Internet is a good place to search for animal hospitals, too, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. When looking for vets online, be sure to read reviews. Pay close attention to the ones that seem to have a common theme. If several people mention that they felt rushed during their appointment, for example, this could be a common problem at the practice. If, on the other hand, there are loads of people raving about the high-quality care their companion receives every time they visit, you can rest assured that your furry friend will likely be in excellent hands if you choose that practice. 

What to Consider

There are several things that should be taken into consideration when trying to find the right animal hospital in Lake Charles. We recommend scheduling an initial appointment to meet the veterinarian and staff without your pet. This gives you a chance to visit the animal hospital and discuss your pet and their needs. It also provides an opportunity for you to ask questions. Some great questions to ask include: 

• What services do you provide? 
• What animals can your staff treat?
• Are you equipped to handle emergencies? 
• How are overnight patients monitored? 
• How are patients monitored before and during surgical procedures? 
• What equipment is the facility outfitted with? 
• Do you perform in-house diagnostics? 
• Do you provide referrals to veterinary specialists, when warranted?

Don’t be shy when it comes to asking questions. Good vets appreciate pet owners who are committed to ensuring that their companions receive the best possible care. Be sure to ask any questions you may have that are pertinent to your pet and their unique needs, too. If, for example, you have a cat who has special needs, ask the vet if they have experience in treating your pet’s particular issue. 

Where to Go if You’re Looking for an Animal Hospital in Lake Charles

If you are searching for a trusted animal hospital in Lake Charles, Country Club Veterinary Clinic has you covered! We provide a complete range of services for dogs, cats, and even exotic pets (including reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals). Whether you have a “typical” pet or something more unique, like a snake, ferret, lizard, frog, or tortoise, we are equipped to provide loving care for them in our state-of-the-art veterinary facility. 

Conveniently located in Lake Charles, LA, we care for pets in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Westlake, and the surrounding areas. Our skilled veterinarians provide everything from routine wellness care and nutritional counseling to surgery and emergency veterinary care. We would be honored to be entrusted with your companion’s care and will treat them like members of our own family. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s appointment!