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CROTON-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. Two doctors from the Croton Animal Hospital were named some of the best veterinarians in Westchester in a survey of their peers conducted for Westchester Magazine.
Dr. Michael Henes and Dr. Bruce Hoskins were both named excellent small animal doctors by the survey, but Hoskins said such lists shouldnt be peoples only tool when finding a veterinarian.
It would all come down to common sense, if theyve had a relationship to the vet for a long time, I wouldnt change vets because someone was nominated best vet, said Hoskins.
Some best practices to look for in veterinarians, said Hoskins, include a clean office, low-turnover among support and veterinary staff and not feeling pressured into a decision.
They should never feel like their vet, or any doctor, should inhibit them about getting a second opinion, and I would never feel slighted if someone said, I think I want to get a second opinion. And I would probably refer them on to someone who is a specialist, if it was surgical I would get a surgical opinion, said Hoskins.
Veterinarians are licensed by New York State and must pass comprehensive written and clinical exams. The New York State Education Department keeps a database of licensed vocations, from acupuncturists and certified public accountants to veterinary technicians and social workers.
Trade groups can also offer a source of credentialing. For example, the American Animal Hospital Association keeps a list of guidelines and physically inspects animal clinics. Vet clinics and hospitals that are AAHA credentialed must adhere to written guidelines. The Croton Animal Hospital is AAHA credentialed.
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