We've talked in the past about taking good care of our animals and about some of the things we need to consider to ensure their continued good health. Nothing, however, is more important than your selection of a veterinarian. We at Alchemy Acres have been blessed with a real jewel - Dr. Susan Sterling in Seymour, TN. Doc Sterling not only has great technical expertise, but also displays sensitivity, common sense, and good humor, to boot.

So what were the criteria we considered inportant?

Selection of Veterinarian

• Possesses good technical expertise - preferably with goats.
• Humility - Is willing to learn and ask questions if the need should arise.
• Does not treat the goat as a small cow - realizes that the goat is a unique species.
• Has a clinic with hours that fit your schedule.
• Will make a farm visit if your situation becomes desperate.
• Good communcator - is on your wavelength, and can explain situations to you in plain English.
• Is willing to answer your questions over the phone.
• Is timely with regards to releasing results of any medical tests - our "people" doctors should heed this.
• Is willing to teach you how to do some of the more simple, yet essential basics.
• Has a pricing structure you can afford - large animal vets are generally more in line with reality.
• Offers choices of treatment - depending upon your finances and the emotional and monetary value of the animal.
• Treats your animals with kindness and dignity.
• Will help you deal with euthanasia of a beloved animal.

All of these criteria will be important to you. Some will be more important than others. The bottom line is that you get high quality care for your herd.

Of course, you need to help your vet - not just sit back and let him/her ladle up the information and care. You need to be observant. Know what is normal behavior and what is not. And if you see a problem, don't wait until the animal is near death to call your vet. After all - (s)he is not God. The sooner the vet is consulted, the better the chances of preventing permanent damage (or death). No vet wants to preside at a needless disaster. And learn to tell the difference between a dire problem and one which can wait until regular office hours. You can only cry wolf so many times before you've really "pissed off" your valuable resource. Observe symptoms, and help the vet to arrive at your farm with the supplies (s)he needs to do the job. You need to excel at communication. Let your vet know just what the situation is - to the best of your ability. Show your appreciation for a job well done. Have a cold drink ready (or hot - depending on the weather) and if the job was messy, some soap and water. Say, "THANKS DOC"!