A good vet is a long-term partner in your pet's health, so it is worth choosing carefully before you have an emergency. The best clinics are busy, explain things clearly and don't rush you through the door.
Ask what a routine check-up covers, how they handle vaccinations and parasite prevention, and whether they will give you a written estimate before any bigger procedure. A vet who is happy to explain the care plan is one you can build a relationship with.
Start with a routine health check and judge them on how clearly they report what they found. Once you trust a clinic, stay with it — a consistent history makes future care faster and better informed.