Finding the right Vet for your pet in the UAE: A simple guide from Oslo
Choosing a vet is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet parent—and the best time to start is before you need one. Whether you’ve just moved, are welcoming a new furry friend, or want better care for your current pet, this guide will help you find a vet who fits your needs and shares your values. At Oslo, we believe the right vet makes all the difference—not just in emergencies, but in every stage of your pet’s life.
How to choose the right Vet?
Where to start looking?
- Search Online: Check Oslo Vet page (find a vet), Google Maps, and social media.
- Ask Around: Get trusted referrals from other pet owners and friends.
- Ask Vets: Seek recommendations from your previous Veterinary specialists.
Online reviews help, but may not show the full picture—visit a few clinics you may have shortlisted or call them to get a feel of their staff and service. Here’s what to consider:
Location & hours:
- Do they offer emergency or after-hours care?
- Is the clinic close to your home?
- Are the hours convenient for your schedule?
Choosing a vet close to home ensures quick access during emergencies, reduces travel stress for your pet, and makes routine visits more manageable and convenient for you.
Services offered:
- Do they offer routine care (vaccines, check-ups)?
- Can they do lab tests or X-rays in-house?
- Do they provide vaccinations, dental care, surgeries, or hospitalization if needed?
Considering the services offered by a vet clinic ensures they can meet your pet’s routine, urgent, and long-term health needs under one roof, saving you time, stress, and unnecessary referrals down the line.
Costs & payment options:
- Ask about their fees for office visits and vaccinations.
- Do they offer payment options?
- Do they accept pet insurance?
Evaluating costs and payment options beforehand helps you plan for both routine and unexpected expenses, ensuring your pet gets timely care without putting financial strain on your household.
Clinic environment
- Is the clinic clean and organized?
- Are the staff friendly and welcoming?
- Is the waiting room calm or chaotic?
Communication style
- Do you feel comfortable asking questions?
- Does the vet explain things clearly?
- Are they open to discussing different treatment options?
Choosing a vet with a clear, compassionate, and responsive communication style helps build trust, keeps you well-informed about your pet’s health, and ensures you're comfortable expressing concerns at any stage of care.
Your pet’s comfort
- If possible, bring your pet to meet the vet
- Watch how your pet reacts to the staff.
- See if the vet uses gentle, fear-free techniques (especially helpful for anxious pets).
Prioritizing your pet’s comfort when choosing a vet helps create a positive, low-stress experience during visits, which can lead to better cooperation, easier treatments, and a stronger bond between your pet and their healthcare provider.
Licensing in UAE
Veterinarians in the UAE must have a professional license from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This ensures they are properly trained and certified to care for pets.
Checking a vet’s licensing in the UAE ensures they meet the professional standards set by local authorities, giving you peace of mind that your pet is receiving care from a qualified, legally recognized medical professional.
Recommendations from Pet Parents
At Oslo, we work with all licensed vets in the UAE, but our pet parents have consistently highlighted three veterinary clinics for their exceptional care. These clinics stand out for their dedication, expert teams, and pet-first approach qualities that make them a favorite among pet owners:
City Vet — Comprehensive, Compassionate, and All-in-One Care
City Vet is a trusted name across the UAE with experienced vets, state-of-the-art equipment, and a wide range of services—from routine checkups and surgery to grooming and exotic pet care. Their clear communication and kind approach make every visit easier for pets and pet parents.
Locations: Multiple branches across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah & more
Phone: 800 82 82
Website: www.cityvetclinic.com
Cat Vet — Tailored Veterinary Care, Just for Cats
Cat Vet is the UAE’s first cat-only clinic, offering a calm, dog-free environment tailored to feline needs. With gentle handling and cat-focused care, their team specializes in making vet visits stress-free for your furry companion.
Locations: Dubai (JLT) | Abu Dhabi (Al Khalidiya)
Phone: 04 421 4726 (Dubai) | 02 666 9433 (Abu Dhabi) |
Website: www.catvetclinic.com
Noble Vet — Personalized, Family-Style Veterinary Care
Noble Vet treats every pet like their own. Known for their warm, community-driven care, they provide tailored treatment plans and clear communication in a welcoming setting. From X-rays and surgery to microchipping and nutrition, they do it all, always with heart.
Locations: Dubai (Motor City, JVC) | Abu Dhabi (Reem Island)
Phone: 04 447 4860 (Dubai) | 02 886 1777 (Abu Dhabi) |
Website: www.noblevet.ae
Questions to Ask the Vet - Bonus Tips
Here are some smart questions to ask before making a decision:
- How many vets are in your clinic?
- Can I request to see the same vet each time?
- Do you handle emergencies? If not, who do you recommend?
- Do you offer overnight care? How is it managed?
- Do you offer home visits or telemedicine?
- Do you support holistic care, like acupuncture or herbal remedies?
- What’s your approach to spaying/neutering, euthanasia, or serious illnesses like cancer?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right vet is like choosing a family doctor—it’s a relationship built on trust, communication, and care. Take your time, ask questions, and listen to your instincts. A good vet will care not only for your pet but also for you as a pet parent.