How to Choose - April 2017

APRIL 2017

SSISTED LIVING FACILITY • AUTO BODY SH WEIGHT LOSS CENTER • CREDIT UNION • ST • ROOFER • DENTIST • GYM • TIRE S your guide to everything MATTRESS STORE • VACUUM DEALER • SURANCE AGENT • INSURANCE COMPANY AUTO SERVICE• MATTRESS STORE• HVA COMPANY • NEW CAR DEALER • NURSIN OME • PHARMACY • PHYSICAL THERAPIS ETIREMENT COMMUNITY • SIDING • TRAV GENT • USED CAR DEALER • VACUUM DEA • WEIGHT LOSS CENTER • WINDOWS

CHOOSE

How to Choose‌ Boat Dealer............................................14 Chiropractor........................................... 8 Golf Course.............................................9 Healthy-living Flooring...........................10 HVAC Company..................................... 12 Mattress.................................................6 RV Lifestyle............................................4 Senior Living Community........................ 2 Veterinarian...........................................16 How to Choose is a special publication of The Billings Gazette Access How to Choose at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections

Consider Senior Living Options Prior to a Crisis

By The Goodman Group

General Manager Dave Worstell Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud Content courtesy of Green Shoot Media unless otherwise noted.

Some edits have been made by advertisers featured in this special publication.

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hether looking to make the decision of moving into a community for you or for a loved one, it can be very overwhelming. The most important piece is trying to find the community that is right for you or your loved one’s care needs, preferences, and more.

Most often this decision is being made during a time of illness or crisis. The best decision for the right community is often made by contacting senior living or health care communities prior to any intention of moving. Most people do not want to give up their autonomy or their home, but then find themselves in a situation where they begin needing more help than family or friends can provide.

A great place to start is engaging in open communications about how you and your loved one see their lives as they age. Sometimes community living is a great option

to eliminate the stress of maintaining a home. Also, there are situations where staying home alone may not always be the best option. One of the most important reasons to start the senior living conversation early is to have a plan, and then start with the scal-

ing down of unnecessary items.

Understanding what quality of life means and determining the ideal living situation for you or your loved one before a health crisis occurs will make the process of joining a community a more pleasant and successful experience.

Good LifeLearning TM

Classes, Clinics, Seminars and Social Events to Enrich Your Life.

All classes & events are free!

EVENTS

Missoula Children’s Theater’s “The Wiz of the West” will be at Westpark Village, April 24-29.

We are looking for children and adults who love singing and acting to join us. We will also need volunteers and backstage people. This is a fun week!

Auditions: Monday, April 25, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Rehearsals: April 25, 5:45-7:45 p.m. and April 25-28, 3:30-7:45 p.m.

Performances: Friday, April 28, 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 29, 2:00 p.m.

Admission is a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Call Kathy or Jan for more information, 652-4886.

SAVE THE DATE!

Join Us for Our Benefit Flower and Bedding Plant Sale

Peter and Suzanne, WPV residents, with a photo of Suzanne’s parents. Her mother, Nan, was a WPV resident years ago.

Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Vegetable, flower, herb and perennial plants for sale from Special K Ranch. All proceeds benefit RiverStone Health’s Healthcare for the Homeless.

East side of Westpark Village

30 YEARS OF CARING FOR FAMILIES. We’d love to hear from you.

2351 Solomon Ave. Billings, MT 59102 406-652-4886

www.westparksenior.com

CELEBRATING

30 Years

serving the BILLINGS COMMUNITY

How to Enjoy a Recreational Vehicle Lifestyle F

or many people, owning an RV is the ultimate expression of freedom.

And for good reason: RV ownership offers an unparalleled do-anything experience. You can go anywhere, and stay wherever you go. With an RV, the way your use your leisure time is entirely up to you.

But the RV lifestyle is different for each RV owner. Some prefer to take their RV camping in the wilderness, while others would rather drive across the country touring new states and cities, or visiting relatives in far-off places.

If you buy an RV, your investment will be rewarded by the way your vehicle pays you back in enjoyment.

So how will you shape your own RV adventure?

Destination Everyone has their own unique reasons for buying an RV. So, before committing to your new purchase, have a clear understanding of your goals.

Having a clear idea of what you want to do in your life will help you during the purchasing process. It will make the decisions much easier.

Perhaps it’s all the destinations you and your family have been longing to see: lakes, mountains, national parks — maybe even big cities you’ve never had the chance to visit.

But also think about the other kind of destination — your mental and emotional one. How do you want to wake up each day? Do you want to build relationships with family, friends and old acquaintances?

Knowing what you want from your experience is the first step toward making it come true.

moving out of their permanent home and spending their lives on the road.

The more time you spend in your RV, the more carefully you need to consider your purchase. For full-timers, it will Find the Right Vehicle feel like you are buying real estate. After all, your home is “RV” may mean “recreational vehicle,” but it may as an important investment in your future. well stand for “right vehicle.”

Some people appreciate having a regular home, a perThe ideal RV will differ from one owner to the next, of manent plot of land where you can return, even if only for a course. So it’s a good thing that RVs come in all shapes and sizes. You can purchase a tiny model based on minivans to few weeks or months each year.

Others desire the freedom that comes with life on the a full-size commercial vehicle as big as some houses.

Practical concerns are always important. you will need road. Selling your home and eliminating property tax, to consider your RV’s reliability, upkeep and fuel efficiency. utilities and worries that go with all of that can be a relief for some people.

Those factors will also play a big part in how you enjoy It’s your decision. your RV-centered life.

Attend some RV shows and visit local dealerships to understand the current RV market — as well as your budAccessories and Supplies get options.

RVs come with accessories and supplies that will make Aside from the functional aspects of the RV, also think your trips enjoyable. about the operational costs. Every vehicle needs routine You may want a satellite TV, Internet access and upmaintenance. Find out what costs will be covered under scale furnishings to complete your RV. your warranty or maintenance plan. It will help you plan Other people want a simple vehicle. They prefer to your purchase. minimize their equipment and gear to keep themselves happy while on the road.

Full or Part-Time?

It all depends on your budget and preferences.

Your RV lifestyle can be everything you want it to be.

Will you be a full or part-time RVer? Most owners begin Whether you want a basic motorhome in the woods or an their new lifestyle part-time. They may take their vehicle upscale land yacht, owning an RV is all about making your on the road for family vacations or fishing trips. Many hopes and dreams come true. people decide to become full-time RVers, which means

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How to Choose a Mattress

By JAY HOFFMAN Owner of Mattress King

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came across an article that brought to light an item everyone has that’s possibly the most used, undervalued, and yet most impactful item to benefit your well-being. It’s not out for everyone to see, in fact we cover it up as if to hide it away. It’s a mattress. Most of us use it 6 to 8 hours every night. How you sleep those hours will dictate how you feel the rest of the time you are awake. Studies also point out most people will spend less on their mattress than many other items in their home.

A study by Oklahoma University showed replacing a mattress that’s at least 5 years old, greatly improve sleep, reduced back and shoulder pain, and reduced back stiffness. Studies also revealed people keep their mattress much longer than they should (you should replace it every 8 years). Considering a mattress maybe the most used item in your home and it can have such a great impact on your health and well-being, selecting the right one should not be taken lightly.

First consider the size you need. If you or your sleeping partner feel crowded consider upgrading to a bigger bed. Even the most comfortable pair of shoes won’t feel comfortable if they’re too small. Next consider support and pressure relief. You can have a very supportive mattress that does not have to feel hard. Many of today’s mattresses provide excellent internal support with great pressure relief to the shoulders and hips.

When shopping for a mattress remember one mattress does not fit everyone. Be careful shopping at places where there is a limited selection, or worse yet, the inability to even try the bed before you buy. When trying the different mattresses, test them out in your preferred sleeping position. You should feel contouring support to your body with little to no pressure to your shoulders or hips. And don’t be short term cheap. Think long term. You only buy a mattress every 8 to 10 years. Yes, a thousanddollar mattress set may seem expensive, but over 10 years the great sleep it provides breaks down to less than 28 cents a night. That’s very inexpensive in the long run, and you will appreciate the set many years after you purchase it.

In conclusion, remember sleep is something you will do one third of your life. How you spend that third of your life will dictate how you feel the other two thirds of your life you are awake. Sleep well.

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How to Choose a Chiropractor

onsulting a chiropractor offers many people an appealing option for overcoming or coping with a variety of bodily problems.

Chiropractors can help their patients manage general afflictions like pain, and can even help you achieve a better state of overall wellness.

Chiropractors are medical professionals who are educated and trained to help relieve pain throughout the skeletal system of the body. They commonly see many patients who seek treatment for pain in their back, head and neck.

Chiropractors approach their discipline with an essential belief that realigning or adjusting the spine can help alleviate and prevent bodily pain.

Those who benefit from a visit to the chiropractor often notice an immediate improvement. These patients report seeing a rapid and notable difference in the pain they had previously experienced. They also often notice similarly rapid benefits in other areas, such as their bones, ligaments, muscles and joints.

A visit to the chiropractor also can help boost your general health. Some patients don’t even go to a chiropractor for skeletal pain — they go because they have persistent pains or problems elsewhere in the body. A session with a chiropractor can often relieve minor ailments such as sinus pain and headaches.

Consider the following tips when finding a chiropractor to best fit your needs.

Not only do chiropractors study the body, they usually also study the muscular skeleton, pressure points, bone and joints, and nerves. Finding a chiropractor with these studies under their belt can give you a better experience and results.

Prior to selecting a chiropractor, inquire about training and credentials.

Make sure he or she is properly qualified, has a current licensee to practice, and has experience in the area you are looking for.

Insurance Coverage Plenty of insurance carriers include chiropractic care as part of their regular coverage.

But you will need to verify that your chiropractic treatment will be covered before you visit. You might be offered a discount for choosing an “in-network” professional.

But if you don’t have insurance, many chiropractors offer low cash rates or affordable plans to help patients.

Even without health insurance, you can still find chiropractor offering quality, cost-effective care.

Check for discounts. Some chiropractors will offer incentive discounts for groups, referrals of new clients and other promotions.

Get Referrals

Someone in your social or professional network has likely received excellent care from a chiropractor.

Ask family, friends and co-workers for referrals.

Quality Inquire specifically about his or her Chiropractors are advanced medical demeanor and schedule. Is it easy to professionals who undertake lengthy make an appointment? You should also and rigorous education and training. find out about the chiropractor’s phiThe profession has some of the most losophy about health and other wellness stringent educational requirements in issues. Some practitioners will suggest all of health care. complementary forms of care, includAccording to the American Chiing massage. ropractic Association, accredited Given the results it can provide, chiropractors go through at least 4,200 chiropractic care is still affordable and combined hours of classroom, laborawell worth the money. With time and tory and clinical training time. effort, you are likely to find a quality Like doctors in training, chiropractic chiropractor in your area. students must spend four years in a preResearching the chiropractors in medical program, in addition to four or your area will help ensure you get the five years of professional training. type of care you want and need.

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How to Choose a Golf Course

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s it any wonder golf is one of America’s most popular pastimes? Golfing offers a rich experience for your senses and your state of mind: serene and beautiful surroundings, a pleasant demand on your body to be active, and — depending on your preference — a choice between socializing and solitude.

Golf is a great way to relax, or to pass a leisurely day on the weekend. Men, women and even children gain enjoyment from spending some time out at the links.

Needless to say, golf is a game whose richness and reward increases when it’s played on the best of courses.

Great golf courses elevate the beauty and pleasant challenge that golfers constantly seek in lesser venues.

Are you on the hunt for a great golf course? If so, you have lots of options.

Do your homework, and you should be able to discover a location that can both test your skills and relax you fully — all without straining your pocketbook.

The Course To any serious golfer, the course itself is the star of the show, and will be the chief factor in deciding on whether a location feels right.

The ideal course is one that’s tough enough to challenge you and keep you coming back to perfect your skills. Going back time and again to the same handful of conveniently-located courses in your area may be a good way to learn the basics. But a more challenging course

will help you grow your skill set.

The Internet is a great research tool. Most courses offer illustrations, photos or schematic views of their course layouts online. They also share their difficulty rating, so you’re informed about what to expect before you go. Look for a layout and difficulty rating that varies significantly from what you’re accustomed to.

In some cases, professional and well-known golfers officially endorse a golf course. They might even offer a prepared statement in the course’s marketing literature to give prospective visitors insight into the arrangement.

Some golf course designers have stellar reputations.

Find out if there are any well-known names involved with your prospective golf course.

The best courses match the natural surroundings.

They will provide a beautiful backdrop to put you in the right frame of mind. Sometimes, the most memorable experience comes from playing in extraordinary settings.

Anyone who owns or manages a business knows that golf courses are excellent places to hold meetings or executive retreats. Some of the best courses provide meeting rooms and guest services that rival five-star hotels.

The bottom line is that the amenities should match the purpose of your visit. Each location is different, catering to a unique clientele and price points. Shop around for a good match.

Services

Every course offers a list of services that will make your visit more enjoyable.

Ask about club and equipment rental. The smartest golfers prefer to try different brands of equipment before buying it. It is often the way they find the best clubs.

Take advantage of other services that might be offered. Most facilities know that a golf course is an excellent escape from daily life. They want you to feel pampered and special.

Why not improve on your swing a little while you’re Amenities there? Many golf courses offer specials on lessons you can take advantage of.

While the course is the most important factor for a And don’t forget about the tournaments. While true golfer, the extras also can mean a lot. Amenities can you’re researching courses, look for special tournabring an added measure of relaxation and enjoyment to your game, especially if you are traveling with family or ments you can get into to test out the course, possibly at a cheaper price. friends.

The best golf courses have gorgeous settings, excelFamily-oriented amenities include pools, water slides and kiddie play areas. Others are better for couples, such lent amenities and exceptional service, as well as the as a romantic restaurant, hot tub and scenic guest areas. challenging course.

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Photographer: Jason Winkeler

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Choosing a Healthy-living Flooring Option Improving Indoor Air Quality: An Industry-First Carpet Installation System Minimizes Mold, Mildew, Dust & Irritants

By RANDY MOSTAD Carpet One Floor & Home

T

he air quality in your home is important. When you think about your floors, you may think that carpet is the last thing you want it you have allergies. But, it may not be the carpet at all that is causing your symptoms. It could be what is underneath your carpet that is the real culprit. Carpet and the padding underneath are often just hiding what lies beneath.

When carpet is removed during the installation process, dust, bacteria, mold and mildew that may have been concealed under your old floor can be stirred up. And, if proper precautions aren’t taken, they will remain in your floor, underneath your new carpet.

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To address these concerns, Carpet One Floor & Home has created the Healthier Living™ Installation system, which uses the most advanced technology to help clean the air of dust, odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew that can trigger allergic reactions during and after home-renovation projects.

The way carpeting is installed can dramatically reduce exposure to irritants that can provoke serious allergy and allergy-like symptoms. By minimizing dust and odors, the cleaner, healthier practices of the Healthier Living® Carpet Installation promote better home air quality, especially for families in which allergies and dust sensitivities are a hindrance. The system also ensures that the subfloor under the carpet is sanitized.

Here’s how it works: Throughout the installation, the HomeGuard Care System™ ensures that dust and particulates are contained to and removed from the work area. This includes using a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum that will not release dust back into the home before and after the cushion and carpet are installed.

Once the old carpet and padding are removed, the subfloors are HEPA Vac’d, then treated with

HealthinEx™ — an antimicrobial agent that disinfects, protects and diminishes mold, mildew and bacteria.

Healthinex™ also traps microorganisms on the surface so they cannot become airborne, and it provides a lasting, clean surface that resists mold growth.

An antimicrobial premium carpet cushion that blocks spills from seeping through and inhibits growth of mold, mildew and odor causing bacteria is used during the installation.

“Truly, not all flooring installations are created equal. We’re very excited that we are able to offer our customer this superior installation system,” said Randy Mostad of Carpet One Floor & Home. “With the Healthier Living™ Flooring Installation System, we’re taking the extra steps homeowners today expect for a cleaner, healthier living environment in their homes.”

Healthier Living™ Installation is available exclusively through Carpet One Floor & Home.

Carpet One Floor & Home of Billings has been serving the Billings MT area for over 35 years. Carpet One is the home of “The Beautiful Guarantee™,” which guarantees that the customer will be 100% happy with their floor. For more information visit Carpet one at 505 S. 24th St W. or call 406-656-9300

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How to Choose an HVAC Company

oing with the right HVAC professional can make a world of difference in your long-term happiness. When your heating or air conditioning system breaks down, it can be a nightmare, especially if temperatures are extreme.

Making sure your HVAC installation or repairs are done right the first time can save you frustration, regret and discomfort — not to mention money.

Even in moderate weather, your home’s HVAC system is important to your family’s safety and comfort.

HVAC professionals prevent equipment failure by routinely servicing and maintaining your system.

And the right qualified professional can help prolong the life of your HVAC unit.

A lot of people — many of them vulnerable — cannot tolerate extreme temperatures. The elderly and people with chronic health problems need to be assured of a stable and consistent temperature inside their homes.

The right HVAC contractor is one who’s helpful, reliable and responsive.

But a poor contractor can drain your bank account and leave you with an unresolved headache.

Talk to the people you know. Ask those in your social network for recommendations. Good word of mouth will go a long way toward helping you find the best professionals in your area.

Come up with a list of possible candidates, then begin investigating.

Start by calling the Better Business Bureau, your state’s board of contractors or the builders’ association to check on their reputations. Your town’s building inspection office may also have information for you. Avoid companies who have many complaints on their record.

Upon narrowing the list, call the remaining ones and ask about pricing, guarantees and warranties. Also inquire about how long it would take to complete a job and the manufacturers’ brands they use.

If you are purchasing new equipment, find out if you need a separate service contractor or if routine maintenance and repairs are included in the price of installation. Does the company provide around-the-clock emergency service?

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High quality HVAC companies are fully licensed, bonded and insured. If a worker is injured or causes damage to your property, that insurance should cover it. Otherwise, you could be liable for the damages. Your insurance premiums would likely increase as a result.

Reputable HVAC companies will usually belong to recognized professional and trade organizations. Some well-known organizations include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute, and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

Membership in one of these organizations is not automatic. Applicants are required to have certain certifications, meet professional standards and meet or exceed other requirements before they are admitted.

Before any work begins, verify that all the required building permits are in place. Most companies will file permits on your behalf at the local building codes office. But don’t assume that it has happened. Check with the permitting office first. Work done without proper permits could result in a fine and time delay.

Have a load calculation done before installing a new system in any building. The best companies perform a thorough calculation rather than estimate. Buildings change over time due to foundations cracking or settling. It will affect the efficiency of any equipment.

The HVAC company shouldn’t use the old unit to determine the proper size of a new one. If your old unit was inadequate, you will want to install a unit that is a different size. Speak with your HVAC installer to determine the right size and model for you.

Ask your HVAC contractor to perform annual checkups to verify that the unit is running at peak efficiency.

With these tips, you can choose a reliable HVAC business that will help you for years to come.

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How to Choose a Boat Dealer

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oating is incredibly popular throughout the United States. And in places where water is abundant, it’s a popular pastime at nearly every time of year. In water-rich states like Montana, boating is a lifestyle for many enthusiasts.

It’s easy to see boating’s appeal: it’s great for fishing, for exploring rivers and lakes, and for recreational activities like skiing and wake boarding. It’s even great for those who just want to laze away on the water, spending time with friends and basking in the sun.

No matter your experience with watercraft, you need a relationship with a reputable dealer. Whether you’re a novice or advanced boater, the advice of a good and experienced dealer can make a big difference in getting the most out of your pastime.

Buying a boat, new or even used, is a big investment. The boat you buy will need to meet your specific needs. It will need to be reliable. Above all, it will need to be seaworthy and safe — a craft that practically guarantees the safety of you

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and everyone on board.

New boats are often expensive. Used boats, on the other hand, are less expensive, but may conceal problems that, if you’re unfortunate enough to inherit, may prove very costly in the future.

It’s vital that you research boat dealers when it’s time to get serious about buying a boat. You can find dealers from a variety of sources, but you should do your homework before setting out for the boat dealership.

Find a dealer who is Marine Industry Certified. A certified dealer has met or exceeded standards in a variety of areas ranging from its facility to the level of service.

It also means that the dealer will guarantee service both before and after the sale.

You can ask friends and family for recommendations. Also, check with local consumer websites, the Better Business Bureau and your local newspaper.

You will also want to do some research on the boats themselves, and their

manufacturers, before heading out to a dealership.

Visit the manufacturer’s website, along with boating forums and consumer websites. Read the comments and ratings for various models.

Some cities have annual boat shows.

These events can provide valuable information about dealers and boat models.

You might also think about where you plan to go boating. Dealers near your favorite boating spot will spare you from having to trailer your boat for hundreds of miles should it ever need servicing.

Purchasing a trailer, docking and storage are also aspects to keep in mind as you purchase a boat. Leave enough money in your budget for these items.

Once you have have narrowed down your list to several dealers, the next step is to speak to each one. Go in person and bring a list of questions to ask them.

When you have selected a boat, make sure it is NMMA certified. This certification ensures that the boat is built according to the American Boat and Yacht

Council’s standards and will meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements.

Do not select a dealer or boat right away. Ask to test drive boats you are thinking of purchasing.

The engine should not be warmed up for you. You will need to start the engine yourself to feel comfortable handling the boat. Make sure there is no potential for overheating the engine.

Perform a visual inspection and test run before negotiating with the dealer. If you are still interested in the boat, haggle with him about the price. Make sure you don’t go over your budget. It will be hard to enjoy a boat when you can barely afford it.

Ask the dealer if he will include essential accessories in the purchase price. He might even include your registration fee in the total cost. If the fee is not included, you will need to register your boat at the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Finding a trustworthy dealer will help you find the best solution for you so you can relax and enjoy your boat.

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How to Choose a Veterinarian

ust as regular doctor visits can save your life, regular veterinary visits can mean the difference between life and death for your pet.

Catching an illness in its early stages means more precious time for the treatment of a serious illness. It could also save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

We form a strong emotional bond with our animals.

For most of us, pets are like members of our family.

In fact, some people even refer to their pets as “fur babies” or “fur children.”

That’s why finding a good veterinarian or veterinary clinic is so important. You need to find qualified care to assure your pet’s long-term health needs are met.

In a tough economy, though pet care is often overlooked. Routine care might even seem unnecessary.

Even humans sometimes skip their medical and dental check-ups if they seem like they’re in good shape.

Consider, though, that pets age faster than humans.

Their bodies and internal systems can change rapidly — sometimes in a matter of a few months or less.

Regular and routine veterinary care will help your pet to live a longer and happy life.

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Selecting the right veterinarian for you and your pet can seem like a difficult task. But follow these guidelines, and you should be on track to finding a professional who will give your pet the quality care it deserves.

Ask for Referrals Talk to people in your social circle. Lots of people have pets, and your family and friends may already know a good veterinarian. Listen to their experiences with a critical ear. You need to find someone who is professional, compassionate and timely. Ask specific questions, such as whether the clinic staff likes animals. Do they respond to concerns in a timely manner?

Go online and research local veterinary and veterinarian clinics. Make a list of potential candidates, then check with the Better Business Bureau in your state to see if there have been any complaints against these professionals. How were the complaints resolved?

Some people need extra services, such as daycare, boarding facilities and pet training. You may also need to have your pet groomed. Find out if the prospective veterinary clinic provides these services.

Make a Visit

After making a list of choices, visit the veterinary office or clinic. Call ahead and request a tour of facilities. The staff should have the time to answer your questions.

You should see a clean and well-maintained office.

Observe how the staff interacts with clients and pets.

Are they warm toward the animals and owners? The employees should have an affinity for animals.

Sit in the waiting area and introduce yourself to other clients. Find out if they are happy with the services and staff. Also, inquire about prices to verify it is within your budget.

If you feel uncomfortable during your visit, consider taking your services elsewhere.

Finding the best vet for you and your pet will take time and research. You should put the same effort into finding a doctor for your animal as you would in finding one for yourself.

Your pet’s health is a cooperative undertaking between you and your veterinarian. The rightt vet for you and your furry, scaly or feathered friend will ensure your pet is with you for years to come.