It happens when you least expect it. One day, you’re scheduling your dog’s annual exam like normal, and the next—BAM—your favorite veterinarian is retiring. RETIRING. The person who has seen you through puppyhood, digestive disasters, mysterious rashes, and that one time your dog ate an entire rotisserie chicken (bones and all) is GONE. What now? Panic? Cry into your dog’s fur? Consider veterinary school yourself just to keep the legacy alive? Before you start Googling “how to get a medical degree in under a week,” take a deep breath. You will get through this.
First, allow yourself to grieve. This is a real loss. Your vet has been a part of your life—sometimes longer than your last three relationships combined. They knew your dog’s quirks, your cat’s preferred method of emotional terrorism, and, most importantly, how to talk you off the ledge when Google convinced you that a minor itch was a rare, fatal disease. It’s okay to feel a little lost. Next, it’s time to meet their replacement, but let’s be honest—it’s a little like meeting your ex’s new partner. No one will ever be as good. Or funny. Or as understanding of your dog’s irrational fear of ceiling fans. But give them a chance. Odds are, your favorite vet didn’t just leave your pets in the hands of a random person they met in a parking lot. The clinic has a plan. Ask the new vet important questions, like, “How do you feel about pets wearing Halloween costumes?” or “Would you be willing to reassure me my dog is fine even when I come in over a totally normal thing?” First impressions matter, but they might just surprise you.
Now, before you consider following your old vet into retirement, remember that this isn’t the end of the world. Sure, it feels like betrayal to let another vet examine your pet, but change can be good. Maybe this new vet has fresh ideas. Maybe they know about cutting-edge treatments or have a magical way of trimming nails without summoning the wrath of your dog. And don’t worry—your pet will be fine, even if you’re not. Dogs just want belly rubs. Cats just want to be left alone. The real issue here is you, adjusting to this terrifying new world without your trusted vet security blanket. But guess what? You’ll survive. You’ll form a new vet relationship. And, in time, you’ll be the one telling new pet parents, “Oh, you’re going to LOVE Dr. So-and-So.” And if all else fails? Bribe the new vet with cookies. It works on dogs, and honestly, it probably works on people too
Sometimes, despite your best efforts to embrace change, you find yourself face-to-face with your new veterinarian and—nope. You just don’t vibe. Maybe they’re too clinical, lack bedside manner, or, worst of all, don’t seem to share your belief that your pet is the most perfect, magical creature to ever exist. Whatever the reason, you’re left wondering, Do I stick it out or start vet shopping?
First, take a deep breath and give it at least one or two visits. Change is hard, and your old vet set the bar high. It’s possible your new vet is just nervous, especially if they know they’re following a beloved legend. If their medical knowledge is solid but their personality is a little stiff, they might warm up over time. On the other hand, if there are glaring red flags—like dismissing your concerns, pushing unnecessary treatments, or acting like they’re annoyed by your mere presence—it’s okay to start looking elsewhere. You and your pet deserve a vet who makes you feel heard and comfortable.
If you decide they’re just not the right fit, don’t feel guilty. This isn’t a marriage; you’re allowed to break up with your vet. Start by asking friends, family, or even your old vet (if they’re still reachable) for recommendations. Read reviews, but take them with a grain of salt—one bad review from someone upset over a bill doesn’t mean the vet is terrible.
Schedule a meet-and-greet with potential new vets to see how they interact with your pet and how they communicate with you. A good vet will not only be medically competent but also take the time to listen and explain things without making you feel rushed or ridiculous.
Once you’ve found a better match, switching is easy. Call the new clinic and request to transfer your pet’s records. There’s no need for an awkward breakup speech unless you feel particularly dramatic (in which case, go ahead and write a heartfelt letter about how “it’s not me, it’s you”). Most importantly, remember that your pet’s health comes first. If something feels off, trust your gut. The right vet is out there—you just have to find them.
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