When move to a new town, it is often daunting to open the Yellow Pages to find a new doctor for your precious pet.

Every advertiser, of course, claims to be caring, and convenient.

So here are a few guidelines to help you find a veterinarian who will fit your criteria.

The first thing you should do is locate the area’s pet emergency centers -- hospitals that are open just for evening and weekend emergencies.

These hospitals are often located in the Yellow Pages under “Veterinary Emergency Service.”

As long as these hospitals are not owned by co-op group(s) of local veterinarians, you can get good unbiased information about veterinarians in your local community. Ask questions. These people are informative.

Some other criteria to look for would be what groups or societies the hospital is affiliated with; for example, AAHA, American Animal Hospital Association).

Another way to gather information is through word of mouth. Go to the local dog parks and talk to people with pets whom you meet on walks. Ask at local grooming parlors.

No matter where you relocate, the veterinarian community is small and people will be glad to tell you what they know.

The final way to select your new veterinarian is to visit the hospital without your pet. Check out the facility and staff.

Ask for a tour. Find out where the veterinarian went to school, how long has he or she has practiced in the area, how many and what type pets he or she has. Make sure the facility is clean and pet friendly.

Ask the employees how they like working there. Find out if the doctor(s) can be reached by phone 24 hours a day.

Ask about the doctor’s special interests. Does the hospital offer grooming and boarding? What are the hours of operation?

Consider writing out a list of questions before your visit, so you don’t forget something.

If you do your homework first, your pet -- and you -- are more likely to have a happy, rewarding first experience with your new carefully chosen veterinarian.