Our pets mean the world to us and we go out of our way to pamper them, from gourmet cat treats to doggie daycare. We should, of course, also demand the very best when it comes to their health. But how do we choose the right veterinarian? How do we know if our pets are receiving proper medical treatment or the most effective therapy when they are sick?

Remarkable progress has been made in veterinary medicine, but there is still much disparity in the health care provided for pets. Dr. Louise Murray cuts through the confusion, addresses the common concerns of pet owners, and arms you with knowledge so you can avoid substandard care. Inside you’ll find information on

• how to choose a veterinarian

• what to look for during your pet’s exam

• when it’s time to seek out a specialist

• how to make sure your pet is protected by up-to-date technology, safe anesthesia protocols, and advanced surgical techniques

• proper pain management and adequate nursing care for your pet

• the lowdown on vaccinations

• the growing realm of alternative veterinary medicine

• the latest pet insurance plans

• the use and misuse of steroid medication

She also gives counsel on where to turn if you suspect improper care, and provides comforting advice on saying good-bye.

Vet Confidential is an honest and vital source that will help pet owners make sure that their cherished pets will live a long, happy, and healthy life.

“Experience, knowledge, and wisdom . . . Dr. Murray has given pet parents a wonderful gift with this informative and necessary guide.”

–ASPCA

“Vet Confidential is a must-have for everyone with a four-legged friend in their lives. Offering helpful advice on working with your veterinarian to maximize your pet’s health and tips on all the latest advances in the field, this book takes the mystery out of seeking the very best health care for your animal companion.”

–Marty Becker, D.V.M., resident veterinarian on Good Morning America

“This is a rare but open look at the intricacies of veterinary medicine. The ins and outs, the rights and wrongs, of what to do and what can be done when your pet is sick is revealed in this very fine and informative book. Dr. Louise Murray becomes your advocate. At last, a book that is on your side.”

–Mordecai Siegal, author, The UC Davis Book of Dogs and The Cornell Book of Cats

“Veterinary medicine has made profound advances in the past decade, and Vet Confidential provides pet owners the tools to benefit from those advances. Dr. Murray’s essential guide to veterinary care is comprehensive yet easy to navigate. Short of going to vet school, I can’t think of a better way to safeguard your pet’s health than by reading this book.”

–Dr. Susan G. Hackner, chair, Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, The Animal Medical Center

“In a clear, concise, and straightforward style, Vet Confidential helps to ensure the best possible veterinary care for your pet. There is important information in this book for both new and experienced pet owners, and if readers follow Dr. Murray’s advice, they will be much better partners with their veterinarians, for the benefit of their animal companions.”

–Felicia B. Nutter, D.V.M., Ph.D., staff veterinarian, The Marine Mammal Center

“Everyone with a pet needs this book. Read it before you go to the vet; read it again when you get home. You and your pet will both feel a lot better if you do.”

–Kate Spade and Andy Spade, co-founders, kate spade

“Practical and authoritative, Vet Confidential gives readers the guidance they need to make wise and informed decisions about their pets’ health care.”

–Nina Munk, founder, UrbanHound.com