What Should I Look For When Selecting a Veterinarian For My Akita? The first thing that most people look for when choosing a veterinarian for their akita is location. Obviously, a vet who is close by is ideal. However, while location is important, it is far from the only thing to consider. Labrador retrievers, as their name indicates, were bred to retrieve things. However, most people think of them today as retrieving sticks, or other similar objects. In reality, they were originally bred to help fishermen by retrieving fishing nets! A good first step is to ask a friend with a pet to recommend a vet. Once they�ve done that, make sure that the vet�s credentials are valid. Another good tip is to show up for an inspection without calling. If you are planning to look into a particular vet, pack your pets up and take an unannounced ride to investigate the vet�s office. This way, you will see what the vet is actually like on an average day. Originating in Germany, the name Affenpinscher means, "monkey-like terrier". However, in France the breed is described as the "Diablotin Moustachu" or "moustached little devil". Both describe the appearance and attitude of this delightful breed. It�s also a good idea to consider the hours that the veterinarian�s office is open. If it is not open all days of the week then, while it may be a good choice for general care, you may want to find an alternate emergency veterinarian ahead of time, in case you should ever need their services during off hours. The diminutive tibetan spaniel, with his feather-like tail, may look a bit like other spaniels, but the breed is actually not a spaniel at all, but more closely related to some combination of the shih tzu, pug, pekingese and Japanese chin. It is vital for both you and your akita to be comfortable at the vet, so be sure to meet the staff. Make a note of how all staff members treat you and your akita, as well as how they treat any other people and pets that may be there at the time. Also, ask whether or not the same vet will be treating your akita during every visit. In some larger clinics you may actually be dealing with several veterinarians. By following these steps, you should be able to find a wonderful veterinarian. Rhodesian ridgebacks have an actual ridge along the top of their backs. The ridge is made up of forward-growing hairs. This ridge gives the rhodesian ridgeback a unique and easily recognizable look.