Question about veterinarians?
 

Well…I am looking to schedule a puppy exam for Suri.
A YT member recommended one that I think I will probably go with.
I did call another to inquire, and most places are around $60 for the exam and any where from $35-60 for a stool sample. I was just curious what everyone else pays for a stool sample? (Geesh now that sounds weird)
Also exactly what is the difference between a private practice and a VCA vet?
First impressions are a big one when you don't really know which one to choose, and I liked the private practice over the VCA so far. When the lady at the VCA was asking for info about Suri, she was stuck on talking about my "teacup" . I understand people are misinformed but once I told her that teacups are actually just a ploy to sell small dogs for a lot,she insisted my dog had to be one. (Kind of made me feel like I was dumb, she kept insisting she was a teacup! I told her she will be about 4 pounds and she said she is definetly a teacup. Geesh…) I think what bothered me more than the subject was the fact she kept pushing the topic. Anywho, I don't know which vet to pick as I want to get it scheduled ASAP. :)

I do not know how old the lady was, but teacup has been a word used for small dogs, as long as I can remember. It used to mean any of the toy dogs. When so many people use a word, it becomes a word even though it not an official word that's accepted by breeders or the AKC. On the other hand, this would bother me, if the vet used the word because I would expect the vet to know this or at least listen to those who knew about the breed. Was the lady you spoke with just a receptionist? One of the reason we chose Joey's vet was that he did specialize in small breeds, I love the way he acts with animals, and I think he really does care about animals, and tries to put them at ease in a gentle manner. He's easy to talk with, and answers questions, until I understand what he's saying without making me feel stupid for asking or not understanding. Trusting your vet is so important, especially when decisions regarding surgeries, and old age are to be made. I don't know the cost of a stool sample, but I believe finding a vet that you have confidence in is the most important part. I would want to choose a place where I could have my vet, not just any vet, when I made an appointment.

I Would worry a little about a vet that uses the word teacup. Small is small but teacup is wrong. I would avoid that one.

Isn't VCA a chain kind of like Banfield?
I would definately go with a private practice if I had the choice.

Ellie goes to the most expensive vet in the area.
Exams are $40 and fecals are $20. Sixty dollars for a fecal is out of the question.

Can you go tour and meet the vets to see what place you like best?
You could also ask questions about surgical protocol and what vaccines your pup is required to have to be seen there. That might help you decide.

I would definetly pay more for a great vet. The problem is I don't really have a place to start. I called around today and asked different places questions, but I think I do like the private practice more.
The lady on the phone was probably just the receptionist, I don't think the subject bothered me as much as the repeated point that she was trying to make. I think she is actually owned by yorkies. :)

You can tell a lot about a doctor by the staff he chooses. Convenience is also a factor in choosing a vet, having one that is fairly close can be comforting in emergencies. Asking the office what their emergency policy is important too. Will they see your dog in an emergency that happens during office hours, or will they require you to take the dog to an emergency clinic? How long is the average wait for an appointment? Will they see your dog soon if it's important?

i paid 21.50 for kona's fecal exam, but the vet was so so...im in the same boat you are searching for a good vet :)

i am open to recommendations in the southern california area if anyone has any :D