Find used veterinary equipment for sale whenever possible

These days, everyone is online, even veterinarians. Professional websites usually allow members to post veterinary equipment for sale.

I recommend: The top veterinary publication in the country is the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, whose classifieds contain listings for new and used equipment for veterinarians. If you’re not already a member, just follow the link to join the AVMA. This link will take you to the member log-on page. Just navigate to "classifieds" after you log in. Also, visit the vets-only online auction site, VetMax.com, and find refurbished vet equipment at DREVeterinary.com.

Network to find all kinds of veterinary supplies

Any new veterinary school graduate should have a sizable list of contacts in the works, including mentors, classmates, professors, pharmaceutical and veterinary medical equipment manufacturers and sales reps. Any of these contacts could provide an excellent start for your equipment search. If you've been in practice for a while, your longtime colleagues make excellent resources.

I recommend: Check out your state's Veterinary Medical Association membership listing for local vets or those with similar practice mixtures who might give you some insight into finding great deals on equipment for veterinarians. A good resource to check is VetQuest Classifieds, where you’ll find the latest veterinary equipment information.

Veterinary equipment suppliers will come to you, and will almost always negotiate to make the sale

Find the veterinary equipment you want and call a company with whom you already do business. Ask them to send someone to demonstrate the equipment and, if you decide to purchase, to train your staff in its use. Most veterinary equipment suppliers provide these services at no cost to you.

I recommend: MWI Veterinary Supply offers comprehensive consulting on all veterinary equipment for sale, as well as competitive pricing and no-cost staff training. Apexx Equipment offers an online consultation service, new and used inventory, and a hospital equipment planner, a checklist for any vet who's just starting out.