We chose our first vet because they saved the life of our first cat in 2001. Molly was a stray Maine **** that was attacked by a dog. The owner of the dog brought her to their vet and was willing to pay for all of her care if they could save her. They did and 8 months later, we adopted her. This vet was only 15 minutes from the house.
When we adopted our second cat from the SPCA in 2003, we took him to this same vet and he turned into Dr. Jekyll every time he was there. Bunny truly hated going there and it would take him hours to come to me once we were home from the appointment. I just assumed it was because of the smell and the fact that all they did when he went there was poke and prod him so I continued to use them.
Then when we got Ginger, our OEB, and took her for a complete physical get her permanent shots started, she too hated being there. When we started having issues with Ginger's folds in her face and they told me it was normal and did not offer any suggestions for treatment or possible control, I found out that they did not have a bulldog specialist. After the third visit and her final permanent shots were given, I decided it was time to find a place that she and Bunny did not hate.
After talking with our dog trainer about other vets in the area, many of them were not recommended for one reason or another so I decided to return to the vet who cared for my Doberman his entire life of 14 years. They are 35 minutes away but all of our pets go there and they do not appear to be as upset when we go. They also have bully breed specialists on staff.
Though it is further away, I have peace of mind that the cats and Ginger are getting the best care that I can get for them so it makes it worth it to me. Moreover, the added bonus is that the care is better and less expensive al at the same time.
Best wishes to you in your search for a good vet!