Bringing home your very own basset hound puppy can be a lot of work, because there is plenty for you to think about. You've likely purchased your pooch toys, a leash, collar, bed, crate, food dishes, and food, but have you picked out your pup's veterinarian yet? Although rarely on the top of a new dog owner's list, choosing a vet is very important because it is something that should be done prior to welcoming your dog home.

Why? When it comes time for your basset hound puppy to have his first checkup, which is usually within a week after you get him, you don't want to be scrambling to find a veterinarian. You may not be concerned if you have a vet that's located down the street, but there is big difference in locating a vet and actually finding one that is the right choice for your basset.

What should you look for when searching for the right veterinarian for your basset hound puppy?

• Someone you can respect and understand. You don't want a vet who is only going to speak in medical terms and who doesn't take the time to explain anything to you, or isn't interested in answering your questions.

• A doctor who has previous experience dealing with basset hounds. Not all breeds are the same. Temperaments and health problems differ, which means how your vet responds to a basset hound puppy and how educated they are about your pooch matters when it comes to caring for their overall wellbeing.

• Your dog should be comfortable and like the veterinarian. Even if the vet isn't your favourite person in the world, he or she is not your doctor - they are your pet's health care provider. Therefore, how well your pal responds to the vet and vice versa is what is important.

• Money matters. Try to find a vet that has an on-site lab. If the office you choose has to send all of their lab work out, it is going to cost you additional money. Moreover, there will also be a longer waiting period for test results. Thus, always compare costs, because one place may charge more for one procedure over another.

Other aspects to keep in mind when vet hunting for your basset hound puppy include:

• Does the vet take same day appointments?

• Is there 24-hour emergency care?

• If the vet office clean?

• Is the staff pleasant to both you and your dog?

• Are the technicians qualified and licensed?

• Does the vet take pet insurance?

• Will the veterinarian refer you to local specialists if/when necessary?

Last but not least, if you don't know where to begin your veterinarian search, obtain recommendations from local family members, co-workers, or friends who own dogs. It's also a good idea to consult the breeder where you obtained your basset hound puppy. Additionally, you can search the yellow pages, and even conduct an online lookup.