Finding a good vet in South Africa is often much easier said than done. Part of the reason why pet owners struggle with this is that there aren’t concise resources, like a vet directory, available online. But here at Petz.co.za, we’re hoping to change all that for good.
Vet directory
The Petz.co.za vet directory aims to help South African pet owners find the best vet in their hometowns that cater to the specific needs of their furry family members.
Why use a vet directory?
Today, pets are living longer and healthier lives thanks to the great veterinary care and of course preventative care we have access to these days. With so much attention being given to the needs of pets, doesn’t it make sense to carefully consider you options when it comes to vets in South Africa?
Selecting the right vet should be done in much the same way you’d go about finding a family physician or dentist. Locations, office hours, payment options, and the range of services on offer are all important considerations.
Perhaps one of the most important factors for pet owners is the friendliness and commitment of the doctors and staff. The vet you choose to use should meet the medical needs of your pet. But you also have to feel comfortable with establishing a long-term veterinarian-client-patient relationship with them.
How to find the best vets
There are basically four ways in which you can find a new veterinarian. These include:
Referrals from friends
Your friends that own pets are great sources of information. Ask them why they like their veterinarian and what makes them special. Perhaps you can pay a visit to their vet just to see what they offer and what the feel in the practice is.
Special interest groups
If your pet is a purebred, the local breed clubs or rescue centres can help you find the information you are looking for. Most clubs and groups have strong relationships with a practice that is familiar with the health-related problems for the particular breed.
Vet directory
Although the business pages of a phone book can give you some info, printed books often don’t have nearly as many resources as online sources. Our vet directory contains all the info you need to find a vet in your area. Don’t believe us? Take a look to see for yourself!
Current vet
This actually only applies if you are relocating. If you are moving, ask our current vet for some referrals and recommendations. A lot of vets have colleagues in other provinces whose practice policies and services are similar to your current vet’s.
How many vets are there in South Africa?
The South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) currently has 675 veterinary practices listed which are members of the association. These veterinary practices are classified under a few different categories, which include:
- Avian
- Behaviourists
- Equine
- Exotics
- Livestock
- Pigs
- Poultry
- Small animals
- State vets
- Wildlife Practices
- Wildlife Vets
With our vet directory, we’re looking to include all that info and more, to help you find the best vet for your pet!
When to use a vet directory
It’s always a good idea to start looking for a new vet before you bring a new pet home. In fact, your vet can help you in selecting the type of pet that best matches your personality, family needs and lifestyle.
The best time to use a vet directory is long before your pet actually needs the services of a veterinarian. Waiting for illness or injury to strike is never a good idea. The last thing you want to do is try to find a good vet in SA when dealing with an emergency situation.
Vets care as much about you (as a pet owner) as they do about your pets. They’re the ones that provide advice and the resources you need to take the best possible care of your pet. By taking the time to select the veterinarian that seems to be able to provide for your needs, you’ll be establishing a rewarding and satisfying partnership.
Need more help?
If you feel a little lost and alone, don’t fear because the Petz team is here. Feel free to reach out to us and find out how we can help you find veterinary care for your pet today!