Advocating For Your Dog - Building a Veterinary Partnership That Listens

As dog owners we wear many hats - caretaker, trainer, best friend, and, perhaps most importantly, advocate. When it comes to your dogs health, you are their voice. That's why advocating for your dog within the veterinary system isn't just important - its essential.

At team Curious Canine we have had recent experience of this, and can attest as to why it is so important to have the right team by your side.

Know Your Dog, Trust Your Instincts

No one knows your dog better than you do. You know their quirks, their routines, the little signs that tell you when they're not quite right. Maybe its a skipped meal, a new limp, or just the 'off' feeling in their eyes. These are things that might not show up in a veterinary exam, but they matter - and they're often the first signs that something is wrong.

Trust that voice. You see your dog every day. Vets are trained to diagnose, but you bring critical context to the table. Don't be afraid to speak up if you feel something isn't right. If your concerns are brushed off, its okay to push for answers or ask for further tests, Your dog can't speak, but you can. If your gut says a vet isn't listening, its ok to find one that will.

The Right Vet Makes All The Difference

Finding the right veterinary team is a game changer. Look for a clinic that doesn't just tolerate your questions - they welcome them. A good vet sees you as part of the team, not just someone who pays the bill. They should be willing to explain, to listen, and to consider your insights as valid and valuable.

Not every vet is the right fit for every dog. Some dogs thrive in a calm, quiet clinic; others needs a team used to high-energy dogs, or those with anxiety.

At Curious Canine we have a wonderful primary care veterinary clinic, where we can almost always see the same vet, and in a setting they are comfortable. This also means that they have got to know him, and his quirks, and can also tell instantly when something is not right - and not just the vets, but also the receptionists! They understand that with Arnhem we need to avoid a waiting room, and that Atlas will need to play a quick game of fetch to become comfortable for an exam. They know their medical history, and trust that my observations are valid.

We have conditioned Arnhem to raise his leg for a heart check - so he knows what to expect now when he see's a stethoscope

Respect Goes Both Ways

While its important to advocate for your dog, it's equally important to treat your veterinary team with kindness and respect. These are highly trained professionals who entered the field because they care deeply about animals. They're also human - working long hours, often in emotionally and physically demanding conditions.

Be patient.

Be courteous.

Remember that respectful communication opens more doors than confrontation ever could.

Building a strong partnership with your vet means recognising their expertise while also standing confidently in your role as your dogs advocate.

Building A Relationship With Your Vet

Great vet care is built on trust - on both sides. When you find a vet who genuinely wants to work with you, nurture that relationship. Keep records of your dogs health, be open and honest, and give feedback. Over time you'll build mutual respect, and your vet will come to appreciate the depth of your knowledge about your own dog.

Consider it a partnership: your observations + their expertise = the best care possible.

Due to some chronic health issues with Arnhem, he has built a great bond with his primary care vet, and is visibly excited to see her. He trusts her implicitly, as do I, because we have fostered a strong working relationship.

Arnhem trusts his veterinary team to do what they need to do

Be The Advocate Your Dog Deserves

Whether its a chronic condition, a sudden illness, or just a subtle change in behaviour, your role as an advocate is vital.

Ask questions.

Speak up.

Take notes.

Get second opinions if you need to.

Your dog counts on you to notice when something is wrong and to fight for the care they need. Being an advocate doesn't mean being combative - it means being informed, involved, and persistent when necessary. You're your dogs biggest supporter, and in the world of veterinary medicine, it can make all the difference.

Waiting for treats!