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Visiting your vet
What to expect
Regular health checks for companion animals are important. Cats and dogs age quickly and to ensure a healthy life for your pet it's always best to catch medical problems early on. Yearly checks are recommended.
When you visit a vet you'll be asked general information about your pet, including details of its medical history. This information will be kept on file and updated each time you attend the veterinary clinic.
The vet staff will advise you of costs for routine treatments and procedures - such as desexing, x-rays, dental work, vaccinations and microchipping. If your pet's case is more complicated, staff will still be able to give you an outline cost but the total will depend on the diagnosis and the course of treatment. Your vet will keep you advised.
Veterinary practices are well equipped to test and treat pets on site for a wide range of medical problems. However, where there is a serious problem, or an emergency, your vet may refer you to a veterinary specialist. Many pet owners take out pet insurance to cover medical emergencies.
As well as treat your pet, your vet can also give you advice on how best to look after your animal such as how to feed, nurture, train and exercise if properly.
Complaints
If you have a complaint about the service you've received from your veterinarian, you should raise it directly with the vet first. You can ask to see the practice manager or principal veterinarian for the practice if you're not comfortable talking directly to the veterinarian. If you're not satisfied with the response, or for more information, contact New Zealand's regulating body, the Veterinary Council of New Zealand (VCNZ).
Useful resources
Coming soon: Find-a-Vet - locate a vet in your area, including those that maintain BESTPRACTICE standards.
Microchipping your pet. The Companion Animal Register - separate from the National Dog Database - allows instant access to comprehensive information to reunite you and your microchipped pet.
Companion Animal Health Foundation - A charitable organisation committed to improving the health and wellbeing of your pet.