|
By Edison T. Rabbit -
November 1999
Finding
a good rabbit veterinarian is just like trying to track down a good
medical doctor for yourself or your child. Even though we bunnies
are gaining in popularity as a household pet, it can be a tough to
find a vet that is well versed in the treatment of us lagomorphs. It
takes some research, and some time to find a vet that knows about
medical issues that affect us rabbits. Don't take this decision too
lightly and please do your "comparison shopping " before there is
an emergency. Your new friends life could depend on your decision!
The
worst reason to choose a vet is because the practice is located
close by. Sure its convenient just to hop into your car and drive 5
minutes to the office but your rabbit friend may not well served.
You best place to start your search is the
House
Rabbit Society's Veterinary Recommendations List. (please note
that the HRS makes no claims with respect to this list) These are
links that have been collected by HRS chapters throughout the United
States.
If the list contains no vet within your area or does not have one
that you feel comfortable with, your next stop should be your local
Yellow Pages or a "yellow pages-like" web site. Look for vets that
deal with what are called "exotics" (yes were classified as exotics
my friends) or small animals.
After looking around, select at least 3 of the clinic or practice
listings and give them a call. Tell the veterinary hospital or
practice that you are interested in their services and want to know
approximately how many bunnies they see a year. The higher number
that is the better!
Ask to make an appointment to talk to their bunny vet. See if that
doctor would not mind to schedule a time to speak with you either in
person or over the phone. This way, you can ask questions of the
prospective rabbit vet in how they treat bunnies. The House Rabbit
Society has a great list of
questions that you can ask to find out if the vet is bunny
friendly! You may want to print this list of questions and take them
with you.
You may also wish to ask about the veterinarian's "after hours"
coverage. Find out how the practice or clinic handles and emergency
situation, AFTER normal business hours. Find out how experienced the
"on call" bunny vet is. This could make a big difference if some
catastrophe strikes.
After you have made your decision and found your rabbit friend's
primary doctor, it may be a good idea to go through the process
again and find a backup vet or two. This way if something happens to
your primary care vet, you and your rabbit friend will be covered!
As your rabbits care giver,you have to feel comfortable with your
bunny's doctor. After all you are trusting him/her with the life of
your rabbit friend. You both will be working as a team to give your
rabbit friend the best care that you both can! This can be one of
the most critical decisions that you can make for your rabbit!
|