There are some days when being a vet can feel a little like being a sleuth. We are looking for clues. Asking questions. Trying to dig out the important facts. To understand the reason why, to tease out what is the most likely option and to decide on which test to choose. Being on the receiving end of our questioning can be quite something else!
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It can feel a little like the inquisition. Especially if you are nervous or stressed about your animal, it can be hard to remember, formulate your thoughts and provide the information you want to. It can sometimes be hard to understand why the questions are relevant. It can feel like the vet is worried about something other than what you are worried about.
Vets are taught to be cautious of a ‘pattern recognition’ approach in treating pets
We are taught not to assume because it looks like something that it necessarily is; as this can lead to bias and misdiagnosis. Instead, vets are taught to listen to the presenting complaint (or the problem that the pet has come in with) and to formulate in their mind a potential list of causes from the most likely to the least likely. They then use a systematic series of questions and tests to rule in or out diagnoses from this list until they have a conclusion on the diagnosis. This has been shown to be a more open and effective way of reaching a diagnosis.
However, animals are more complex than a simple algorithm of ruling things in or out. They can’t tell us what they are feeling and you are the mouthpiece for them.
What about the money?
Part of the job of a vet is to really consider, especially in the current economic climate, which tests offer the most value for money and are most likely to allow us to reach a true diagnosis. Often the extensive questioning process is what really helps your vet to come up with the best series of tests for your pet.
How to prepare for the consultation
When you are preparing for a consultation, sometimes, it is worth remembering first to breathe. To ground yourself in the moment. If you have time, the problem is something complex or you are especially concerned about, it is worth writing some notes for yourself. Listing the important things, you want your vet to know and also highlighting the three most important questions you want answering.
Your vet is likely to use a mixture of open and closed questions
Open questions are ones that need an extensive sentence as an answer. An example of an open question would be “What can I do for you today?”. For these, please be as succinct as you can but also try to think broadly about your answer. Sometimes vets use more closed questions like “how many times a day are they vomiting?” or “are they having diarrhoea as well?”. These can be answered in simple terms.
The variety of questions asked is used to help you structure your thoughts and help the vet obtain the information they need. Unfortunately, consultations are always under some form of time pressure and getting a history effectively is an art form. Lean into your vet’s questions and go with the process. If at the end you feel something is missing then let them know. This is a dialogue and you need to get what you need to say heard by your vet as well.
If you are unsure about a question, you have been asked, then ask for clarification
Vets sometimes use long technical words that they don’t mean to. Technical terms should be used between two veterinary professionals not to clients but sometimes we get it wrong. Vets want you to understand. It is a team effort to work out how to help your pet. So, try not to be embarrassed and ensure you do understand what you are being asked.
Always remember you are the advocate for your pet
If you don’t understand please ask for clarification. If you have something you want to be heard please say it again. Your vet is working with you to try to find the best way forward for your pet.
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