Find Out The Best Bets For Choosing Vets For Your Pets

Kathe Garrison knew exactly what she wanted for her dogs, Lillie and Oliver. She wanted the best possible care for them.

"I want a veterinarian who knows my dog," she says. "The vet just wasn't very interested. It's like, 'Yeah, we'll be glad to help you, but there wasn't any real interest there.'"

She moved on to the next veterinarian and found Dr. Betsy Sigmon, chairman of the Judicial Council of theAmerican Veterinary Medical Association. She says she prides herself and her practice on service.

"Take the time to spend with clients. Let them make informed choices rather than me dictating this is what you're going to do," she says.

Choosing a veterinarian is an important process, and there are two things you should ask yourself before you start.

"What is most important to you: the bottom line or safety," Sigmon says.

If safety is a concern, you will want an animal clinic with high-tech equipment like heart monitors.

"If they're continually looking at their watch while they're talking with you, or if they look like they're doing you a favor by being in the room with you, you may want to seek services elsewhere," Sigmon says.

It is a special thing -- the bond between a pet and its owner. For Garrison, it is one she would like to preserve as long as possible.

"They're very important members of the family to us," she says.