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5 Ways To Find The Best Vet In Columbus, Ohio

As a pet parent, you can imagine how important it is to provide the best care for your pup. One of the key factors in keeping them healthy and happy is finding a trusted and reputable vet in Columbus, Ohio.

At Hands N Paws, we are dedicated to helping you find the best vet for your pet’s needs. Here are some ways to help you get started!

1. Ask for Recommendations

The first step in finding the right vet for your furry family member is to ask for recommendations. There are several ways to do this:

  1. Talk to your friends and family who have pets of their own. They may have a trusted vet that they can recommend.
  2. Ask your local pet store employees for recommendations. They often work closely with local vets and can provide you with a list of reputable ones.
  3. Reach out to local pet organizations, such as the Columbus Dog Connection or the Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center and ask for their recommendations.
  4. Check online reviews and forums, such as Yelp or Facebook groups, for recommendations from other pet parents in your community.
  5. Our dog walkers and pet sitters often work with local veterinarians and can provide you with a list of highly recommended vets in the area.

By seeking recommendations from a variety of sources, you can be confident in finding a vet that is highly regarded by other pet owners in your area. Don’t be afraid to “ruff” around and ask for some “paws-itive” feedback!

2. Check Credentials and Accreditation

When it comes to choosing a vet for your beloved pet, it is crucial to ensure that they have the proper credentials and accreditation. Here are some things to look for:

  • Veterinary License: The first thing you should check is if the vet you are considering has a valid license to practice in Ohio. You can easily verify their license by checking with the Ohio Veterinary Medical Licensing Board.
  • Board Certification: Board certification is an additional level of education and training that some veterinarians undergo in order to specialize in a particular field, such as surgery or dermatology. A board-certified veterinarian has demonstrated a high level of expertise and knowledge in their area of specialization.
  • Accreditation: Look for a vet clinic that is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). AAHA accreditation is a voluntary process that ensures that a clinic meets high standards in areas such as medical equipment, facility cleanliness, and medical protocols.
  • Continuing Education: A good veterinarian will continue to update their knowledge and skills by attending conferences and continuing education courses. Ask your prospective vet about their continuing education efforts to ensure that they are up-to-date with the latest developments in veterinary medicine.

By checking for these credentials and accreditations, you can ensure that the vet has the necessary qualifications and expertise to provide the best possible care for your pet.

3. Evaluate Services Offered

It’s also important to evaluate the services offered by the potential vets. Some key services to look for include:

  • Vaccinations: Regular vaccinations are an important part of keeping your pet healthy and protected from diseases. Make sure the vet you choose offers a comprehensive vaccination program.
  • Spaying and Neutering: If you’re a pet parent of a cat or dog, spaying or neutering may be an important consideration. Look for a vet that offers these services and has experience in performing these procedures.
  • Emergency Care: Emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s important to find a vet that offers 24/7 emergency services. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your pet will receive the care they need, when they need it.
  • Dental Care: Dental care is an important aspect of pet health, and many vets offer routine dental check-ups and cleanings. Look for a vet that has the necessary equipment and experience to provide comprehensive dental care for your pet.
  • Surgery: If your pet requires surgery, look for a vet that has the necessary experience and equipment to perform the procedure. Make sure the vet you choose has a good track record and a high success rate.

By exploring the service catalog of your ideal vet, you can ensure that the care they’ll provide is “tail-ored” to meet your pup’s specific needs. Our dog walkers in Columbus, Ohio believe that every pup is best cared for on an individual basis, regarding the fact that each one has unique personality traits, quirks, needs, etc. Your ideal vet will also believe the same is true for your pup.

4. Consider Location and Hours

When it comes to finding the best vet in Columbus, Ohio, considering their hours and location is an important factor to take into account. You’ll want to choose a vet that’s located conveniently for you and your pet, making it easy to get there for routine checkups or in case of emergencies.

It’s also important to consider their hours of operation. A vet with flexible hours can be helpful if you have a busy schedule or if you need to schedule appointments outside of regular business hours. You may also want to choose a vet with emergency hours in case of unexpected health issues with your pet.

Another consideration is the availability of parking and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Make sure that the vet’s office has ample parking for you to park your car or take public transportation, and that their office is accessible to people with mobility issues.

5. Meet the Vet in Person

Meeting with the vet in person is crucial when looking for the best vet in Columbus, Ohio. This allows you to gauge their personality, communication style, and expertise. You want to choose a vet who makes you feel comfortable and can communicate effectively about your pet’s health. It’s also a good idea to tour the facility and meet with the staff to get a sense of the overall atmosphere and quality of care provided.

Additionally, you might ask about emergency procedures, payment options, and after-hours care. By taking the time to meet with the vet and staff, you can ensure that your pet receives the best possible care and that you feel confident and comfortable with the vet’s approach to veterinary medicine.

Find Your Ideal Vet in Columbus, Ohio Today!

In conclusion, finding the best vet in Columbus, Ohio can be an overwhelming task. By following the steps mentioned above, however, you can make an informed decision that will provide the best possible care for your furry family member. Always remember to ask for recommendations from trusted sources. Also, be sure to check the vet’s credentials and accreditation. Inquire about their services and other things when you meet the vet in person. Choose a vet that’s close to where you live for convenience of travel, especially in emergencies.

Again, our team of pet sitters in Columbus, Ohio work closely with local veterinarians and can provide you with several recommended vets in the area. By taking the time to find the right vet, you can rest easy knowing that your pet’s health and happiness are in good hands.

Give yourself the pet parent peace of mind you finally DESERVE!

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By signing this agreement, you confirm that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to the policies below. Your signature also allows us to add your email to our mailing list (you can change your preferences anytime).

Key Terms
– Client = You
– Company = Hands N Paws
– Team Member(s) = Our pet care professionals

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Emergency Care Policy
You’re responsible for providing emergency instructions and medical details for your pet. Otherwise, we’ll contact your vet or an emergency clinic in case of an emergency. Team Members may make urgent care decisions (excluding euthanasia) if immediate action is needed. You’re responsible for any veterinary costs, and Hands N Paws isn’t liable for circumstances beyond our control.

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Home Access Policy
A lockbox with a spare key is required to ensure we can access your home. Garage or keypad codes are okay but don’t replace the need for a lockbox. Provide clear access instructions in your account notes. If entry is complicated, email us a video walkthrough to avoid delays. Our priority is your pets, not troubleshooting access!

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Cancellation Policy
We get it—plans change! Here’s our policy:
– 48+ hours notice: 100% refund as Account Credit.
– 24-48 hours notice: 50% refund as Account Credit.
– Less than 24 hours: No refund.
Refunds are issued as Account Credits and auto-apply to your next invoice.

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Safe & Sanitary Environment
You understand and agree that the environment in which we provide services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If we determine that your home is unsanitary or unsafe, we’ll let you know and take appropriate action, which may include stopping services.

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Service Termination Policy
In rare cases, if we believe there’s a serious danger to the health or safety of our Team Members or your pets, we may terminate services during a scheduled period. If this happens, you agree to cover the cost of boarding your pet or arranging alternative care until you return. We’ll do our best to notify you and/or your emergency contacts in these situations.

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Third-Party Access Policy
You’re responsible for letting us know if anyone else will have access to your home during the scheduled services. Hands N Paws is not liable for any loss, expense, or damage caused by third parties entering your home during this time.

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Vaccination, Licensing & ID Policy
Before services begin, all pets must:
– Be up-to-date on vaccinations and local licensing.
– Wear an ID tag with your contact info or be microchipped for identification.

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Pet Safety Policy
For everyone’s safety, dogs must remain leashed during walks. Off-leash walks are strictly prohibited.

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Accurate Pet Information Policy
Keep your pet’s info in your account accurate and up-to-date. Every three months, you’ll be prompted to review and confirm your pet’s details before being able to request services. Hands N Paws isn’t responsible for issues caused by outdated or incorrect information.

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Provide Visuals Policy
For complex routines or home entry instructions, please record a video and email it to us. A visual guide helps us better understand your needs and ensures smooth service delivery.

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Flexible Arrival Times
Services are scheduled within a two-hour arrival window to accommodate travel and other clients. While we’ll do our best to meet your preferred times, exact arrival times can’t be guaranteed.

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Trial Visits
For extended pet care (e.g., vacation services), we require a Trial Visit while you’re still in town. This helps ensure your pet is comfortable with our team before committing to long-term care.

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Service Request Approval & Availability
We do our best to accommodate all requests, but approval depends on Team Member availability. After submitting a request, you’ll receive an email confirmation or declination within 48 hours. If declined, we’ll work with you to explore alternatives.

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Communication Policy
Team Members will update you on your pet’s care through post-service journal entries in your account. If they have urgent questions during a service, they’ll call you using the number on file. If you receive a Team Member’s personal number, please don’t use it freely. Keep all communication in your account by responding to journals, updating service notes, or, if needed, contact our main office.

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Team Appreciation
Our Team Members work hard to care for your pets, and a little appreciation goes a long way! Feel free to leave kind journal comments, rate services, or tip for exceptional care. It means the world to us!

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Meet N Greets
A Meet N Greet is required before starting services to ensure we understand your pet’s needs and provide the best care.
– Virtual Meet N Greets: Free.
– In-Person Meet N Greets: $50.
New Clients can schedule at *www.myhandsnpaws.com*; Existing Clients can book through their account.

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Pricing & Surcharges
Visit *www.myhandsnpaws.com* for the most up-to-date pricing. Additional fees may apply in certain situations:
– Last-Minute Services: $15 for requests made within 24 hours.
– Holiday Services: $20 per service on major holidays.
– Additional Pets: $7 per pet beyond the first two.
– Service Adjustments: Fees may apply if additional time or tasks are required.

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Payment & Billing
We accept all major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover). A valid card must be stored securely in your account.
– Ongoing Services: Auto-charged every Friday for the previous week’s services.
– One-Time Services: 50% deposit charged upon confirmation; the rest is due by the last service date (auto-charged).
– Declined Payments: You’ll be notified immediately and have 24 hours to resolve it. A 10% late fee (minimum $20) applies after a second declined attempt.

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Contract Terms
This agreement starts when you sign it and continues until either of us ends it. You can book additional services online anytime, depending on availability. By signing, you authorize Hands N Paws to enter your home and care for your pets without needing extra contracts for confirmed bookings.

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Thanks for trusting Hands N Paws with your furry family! 🐾