No matter what part of the country you live in, summers in the U.S. can get pretty hot. When the temperatures soar, humans know when it’s time to call it a day and head inside for a cool-down.

Pet adoption is always an exciting time. There’s the butterflies soon-to-be owners get when going to pick up the new pet; there’s picking out a bed, blanket, food and water bowls, treats and toys; and then there’s the meeting and reaping the benefits of a family pet.

Before making the decision to adopt, it’s crucial for prospective pet owners to engage in research and careful planning. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends pet owners asking themselves whether they are ready to adopt or not.

So you’ve got your new pet – but now you need to find the right veterinarian. The search for a veterinarian can pose a difficult decision for first-time pet owners.

Don’t let this task frighten you, though; veterinarians and their teams want to answer your questions and, ultimately, get and maintain your business. In order to ferret out the best veterinarian for your new pet, make sure you ask the right questions and consider all the possibilities.