Local veterinary practices provide exceptional service. They keep the pet-loving community thriving. As more and more corporations buy out small, independent veterinary practices, it's important to shower local vet clinics with love. In this blog, we're discussing why local vets deserve appreciation. I'll also share my favorite local veterinarian and why they are the best bet for my pets.
Showering Local Vet Clinics with Love: The Best for People & Pets
Personalized Service
Larger chain veterinary clinics can feel impersonal. They often have large teams with inconsistent staffing, affecting the care people and pets receive. They are also scrutinized for profit, sometimes putting money before all else.
Local vets, on the other hand, usually have an experienced team with ties to the local community. Local veterinary clinics take the time to get to know you and your pet, building a trusting relationship that's meant to last for the life of your pet and beyond. Because they are locally owned and operated, local vets have more control over their processes, diagnostic tools, procedures, etc.
Well-established local veterinarians attract loyal employees and clients. They create a practice that feels like a family, paying close attention to detail, remembering pet and pet parent names, and connecting with everyone who walks through their doors - human or otherwise.
Local Knowledge & Expertise
In addition, local vets often specialize in specific regions or types of pets. Established local vets understand the local environment. They are familiar with potential health risks your pet might face while living in the area including pests, vaccine-preventable diseases, and other threats.
Getting to know pet parents' challenges, lifestyles, budgets, and more also helps local vets meet the needs of pet parents and their pets. A corporation that owns thousands of practices around the country can't provide expert local knowledge like a local vet practice can.
Commitment to the Community
Local vets have close ties to the animal welfare community. They often volunteer their skills and work pro bono to help the local homeless pet population. Many local veterinarians work tirelessly to educate pet parents and members of the community of the risks their pets may encounter. They also partner with shelters and rescues to provide much-needed medical attention to needy pets,
These vets and their staff are invested in the well-being of the pets in and around the community. They often sponsor local events, offer educational talks, and even participate in pet adoption and donation drives. A vet that is connected to their local community is a vet that can change the lives of homeless pets and families in more ways than one.
Showering Local Vet Clinics with Love: Salty Paws Veterinary Hospital
I've been taking my pets to Salty Paws Veterinary Hospital since 2008. My pets currently see Dr Fannin, but the entire staff at Salty Paws is wonderful. From their vets to their office managers, I wholeheartedly trust their team.
Fear Free Certified
Salty Paws' veterinarians are Fear Free Certified. As a Fear Free Certified Professional myself, I like to support other Fear Free Professionals. Fear-free knowledge and know-how make veterinary visits less stressful for everyone, myself included.
Among other fear-free practices, Salty Paws offers "happy visits' during which pets visit their office to acclimate to the veterinary experience, without having anything done. This way, fearful and/or young pets learn to associate the office as a safe space, rather than a torture chamber.
Locally Owned & Operated
The Salty Paws team has been recognized as one of the best vet practices in Yorktown for decades. They celebrated 25 years in our area in December of 2023.
In this article from Yes York County, Dr. Sharon Dirmeyer explains why local veterinary clinics like hers are the better choice:
"“Most veterinary practices are now corporately owned,” commented Dirmeyer. “They are being bought up like flies by big conglomerates, as older doctors retire. By maintaining private ownership of Salty Paws, we have more control over our processes, schedules and values. We pride ourselves on spending time with our clients and really listening to their concerns.”"
Private vets usually keep costs lower than corporate-run vets as well. Check out this recent article from The Atlantic to learn more.
Showering Local Businesses with Love: Choose Local
When choosing any business, I explore locally owned and operated options first. By doing so, I keep our local economy going. I also get more peace of mind, knowing I can speak to a local person if something goes wrong.
Hearts at Home Pet Sitting is locally owned and operated. I am available to speak to our clients and answer any questions or concerns. I believe that communication and transparency not only set us apart from the competition, but they also enhance our service levels.
Our in-home dog walking and pet sitting services are available in Yorktown, Poquoson, Newport News, and Hampton, Virginia. If you are interested in registering your pet(s) with us, please complete a new client questionnaire here. Existing clients may request services here.
Please visit our website or contact us by email at Hello@HeartsAtHomePetSitting.com or by phone at 757-745-9868 to learn more. We thank you for supporting our local business!
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