How to Write a Thank You Note to an Animal Doctor

Good veterinary care can save your pet's life.

Animal doctors, commonly called veterinarians, perform health services for our beloved pets ranging from routine checkups and vaccinations to emergency surgery. Maybe your veterinarian performed a near-miraculous operation that saved your dog's life---or maybe you just want to express your gratitude for all the years she's helped keep your scarlet macaw healthy. No matter the reason, writing a thank-you note to your veterinarian will put a smile on both your faces.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Scrap paper
• Card

Instructions

1. 

   Going to the vet scares some pets.

   Open the text of your thank you note with "Dear Dr. Lastname." Continue with a sentence saying in a general way what it is you'd like to thank the doctor for. Specify the date of your visit and the name and breed of your pet. For example, write, "I just want to say thank you for how you treated Sparky, my border collie, last Saturday." While chances are very good that the doctor remembers Sparky, animal doctors do see many animals every day, some of whom even share the same name. It never hurts to remind the doctor which Sparky you're referring to.

2. 

   Squirrels may not be happy that Sparky feels better.

   In a few sentences, elaborate on what, specifically, the doctor did well and what effect that had on your pet. For example, "Your soothing manner made the tumor removal operation as stress-free as possible. Sparky's leg is healing nicely and she's almost back to her old self. I have a feeling she'll be back to chasing squirrels again in no time."

3. 

   The best thank-you to a vet is referring friends.

   Thank the doctor again and let him know that you'll be seeing him in the future. For example, "Thanks again for caring for Sparky with compassion and skill. We'll see you at the follow-up appointment in six weeks! Gratefully, Roger."

4. 

   Use a photo as a thank-you postcard.

   Get a recycled-paper greeting card and an acid-free, archival-quality pen. Carefully copy the final text you came up with. Tuck a picture of your happy pet into the envelope along with the card.

Tips & Warnings

• Draft the thank-you note on scrap paper before you write in a greeting card. This will help avoid writer's block.

References

• Miss Manners: Thank-you notes should be thoughtful