Choosing the Right Vet for Your New Pet
Bringing home a new pet is one of life’s most joyful moments—but it also comes with big responsibilities. From nutrition to preventive care, your pet’s health depends on finding the right veterinarian. At Animal Care Clinic in Junction City, KS, we believe every pet deserves compassionate, high-quality care that lasts a lifetime.
Why Choosing the Right Vet Matters
Selecting a veterinarian isn’t just about convenience—it’s about building a lasting healthcare partnership. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), preventive veterinary care can extend a pet’s life by as much as 20% through early detection and consistent wellness exams.
A good vet will do more than provide emergency treatment—they’ll guide you in nutrition, vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and behavioural health. This kind of continuity is essential for pets in all life stages, from playful puppies to senior companions.
How to Find a Good Vet
1. Ask for Recommendations
Start with trusted referrals. Friends, family, and local shelters often know which clinics provide compassionate, reliable service. Online reviews can also offer insight into a clinic’s approach and communication.
2. Research Qualifications
Check that your veterinarian is licensed and in good standing with the state board. Clinics accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) meet over 900 standards for safety, diagnostics, and patient care.
3. Visit the Clinic Website
A professional, transparent website—like Animal Care Clinic’s—shows commitment to patient education and accessibility. Look for clear service listings, such as preventive care, dental health, emergency services, and nutritional counselling.
4. Evaluate Accessibility
Choose a vet close enough for emergencies, with flexible hours and clear communication channels. At Animal Care Clinic, for example, our team is available six days a week with on-site laboratory and radiology services for fast, accurate diagnosis.
How to Choose the Right Veterinarian
Once you’ve found a few options, take time to assess each clinic in person.
Observe the Environment
A clean, well-organized clinic with a calm atmosphere reflects a commitment to high standards. Friendly, attentive staff signal that your pet will be treated with care.
Assess Communication
A great veterinarian listens closely and explains care plans in plain language. You should feel comfortable asking questions and confident in their recommendations.
Consider Range of Services
Look for a clinic offering a wide spectrum of care—from wellness exams to surgery and pain management. This ensures consistent, integrated treatment throughout your pet’s life.
Transparency and Trust
A trustworthy vet will discuss treatment options openly, explain costs clearly, and never rush your questions. Transparency builds confidence in both routine and complex procedures.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing
Bring this checklist to your first visit:
Do you offer after-hours or emergency care?
What preventive care do you recommend for my pet’s breed and age?
What diagnostic tools do you have on-site?
Do you accept pet insurance or offer payment plans?
How do you handle behavioral or nutritional consultations?
Asking these questions helps you evaluate the clinic’s values, responsiveness, and readiness to meet your pet’s needs.
Signs of a Great Veterinarian (and Red Flags to Avoid)
What to Avoid
Rushed or dismissive attitude
Unorganized or unhygienic spaces
Vague or confusing explanations
Hard-to-reach staff
Only reactive treatments
What to Look For
Gentle, compassionate handling
Clean, modern facilities
Detailed, written care instructions
Consistent communication
Preventive care focus
Choosing the Right Vet for Your New Pet: The Animal Care Clinic Difference
Since 1975, Animal Care Clinic has been Junction City’s trusted choice for pet wellness, surgery, dental care, and preventive health. Led by Dr. Mark Stenstrom, DVM, our mission is simple: to provide state-of-the-art veterinary care with compassion and integrity. From vaccinations to advanced diagnostics, our experienced team ensures every patient receives individualized attention and evidence-based treatment.
According to the 2023 AVMA Pet Ownership Survey, more than 70% of U.S. households now include at least one pet—and every one of them deserves a skilled, caring veterinarian. Whether you’re welcoming your first puppy or caring for an aging cat, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.