They turn off their cell phones during
their appointment.
1. Taking or making a phone call or texting in the middle of an exam is not only rude, it distracts you and the vet from the business at hand, which is looking out for your pet's health. Show respect for both your vet and your pet by giving them your full attention.
They leave the kids at home.
1. You've probably noticed pets don't especially like being at the vet's office. Most dogs, and especially cats, are anxious and fearful during vet visits. The last thing an upset animal patient needs is a rambunctious or ill-mannered child in the mix. There are also safety concerns when small lively kids are roaming around a veterinary hospital or exam room.
  
  So unless your vet visit is an emergency and there's no one home to watch the kids, or your sitter cancels at the last minute, there's no good reason to bring children to a vet appointment.
They keep their dog on a regular
(non-retractable) leash at all times.
1. Some pet owners seem to believe that since vet clinics are animal-friendly and populated by animal lovers, it's okay to let their dog run "off leash" at the vet's office. It's not. It's actually quite dangerous for other pets, pet owners and hospital staff.
They keep their cat in a carrier.
1. Carrying your cat to and from vet appointments in your arms is asking for trouble. Most cats can find a way to get loose from their human's grasp if they commit to it.
  
  Cats on leashes may not be able to escape, but they can be easy prey for dogs who are also visiting the clinic.
  
  Carriers are the very best way to safely transport kitties. And since Fluffy probably won't want to leave the safety of her carrier once at the vet clinic, it's a good idea to purchase one that allows you to lift your cat out from the top.
They prepare for their visit.
1. The more information I have about your pet, the better I can help her. Make notes ahead of time of your concerns and any symptoms or behavior changes you've noticed in your pet. The more info you can provide your vet about when a symptom started, how often it happens, etc., the better. Videos can be helpful as well to demonstrate what your pet is doing that has you worried. Bring a small amount of fresh poop in a baggie for analysis, especially if your dog or cat is having digestive issues.
  
  Remember -- your pet can't speak and your vet only sees your animal once or twice a year, so you must be the voice for your dog or cat.
They don't argue needlessly with the vet.
1. Some pet owners don't seem open to receiving the benefit of their veterinarian's education and experience. For example, there are more than a few pet parents who simply won't accept that their overfed companion animal is dangerously obese. Other clients refuse to acknowledge their pet has a mouth full of bad teeth or advanced gum disease.
  
  You should certainly question your vet about issues of great importance to you, for example, the diet you feed your pet or the best time for sterilization surgery. But if you find yourself unwilling to heed any of your vet's advice, it's either time to find another DVM or consider approaching vet visits with a more open mind.
They follow through.
1. Your vet can't help you heal your pet or keep him in good health if you don't follow through on recommended treatments or other actions.
  
  Let's say your cat is having early signs of a urinary tract disorder and your vet recommends transitioning him from kibble to a moisture-rich diet. You try, but your cat just refuses to eat a different kind of food. Rather than throw up your hands and go back to the kibble, call the doc and discuss your dilemma. Your vet should be able to offer alternative suggestions for transitioning kitty's diet and getting more moisture into his meals.