Moving house with your pet?

If you’ve just secured a new home – congratulations! Wherever you are, it’s important to know your local vet and moving to a new area can mean looking for a new one. We’ve compiled some tips to help you with your search for the best vet for your pet.

Do your research

Asking your current vet for recommendations in your new area is a good place to start your search. They’ll be the best person to give you trusted advice that you can confidently act on. Another option is that once you’ve moved into your new area, you can visit your new neighbours with furry friends and see what they recommend. This can also be a great way to meet new neighbours and break the ice.

If you feel the recommendations and referrals aren’t right for you and your pet, jump online and find your local Animates Vetcare animatesvetcare.co.nz.

Making the right choice

It’s a good idea to get to know your new vet practice a little before you make the commitment, so you know that you’ve made the right choice. This is also a great way to help your pet transition between clinics.

Here are some tips for your first visit:

• Schedule an appointment in advance. Let the vet practice know that you are new to the area and want to meet them and introduce your pet. There doesn’t need to be a reason, this could just be a regular check-up. Make sure to arrive with extra time before your appointment so your pet can get used to the environment.
• Come prepared. Your vet will ask basic information about your pet as a part of getting to know them, so they can provide the best care. Make sure you know the food they eat and any medication they take. Bring a copy of your pet’s medical records or request one to be sent from your old vet.
• Ask questions. Don’t be shy - get to know the vet and the clinic. Helpful questions to ask could be; How long have you been a practising vet? Do you have an after-hours emergency service?
  
  
  
  
   

A stress-free vet visit

If you have an anxious pet or one that isn’t great around other animals and new environments, make sure your visit is as stress-free as possible. Here’s what to do:

• Call ahead. If you know your pet doesn’t cope well with stress, let the vet team know. They will help make sure your visit is as stress-free as possible.
• Relax. Pets are very intuitive. If you adopt a relaxed and positive attitude, your pet will often follow your lead.
• Just drop by. Popping into the clinic to say hello can help familiarise your pet with their new vet and all the smells without being physically examined each time they visit.
• Bring a comfort item. If your pet has a favourite blanket or toy, bring them along. They may help your pet feel more calm and relaxed.

We know that moving into a new area and getting familiar with your new home takes time, so don’t forget that your pet needs help with settling in too. If you need more help on moving homes with a furry friend visit your local Animates (www.animates.co.nz) or Animates Vetcare(www.animatesvetcare.co.nz) to have a chat with their team for expert advice.