How to check a clinic's vaccines are stored and given properly

You're sitting in the waiting room with your puppy or adult dog, and a vet tech carries a vaccine vial from somewhere in the back. You hand over your pet for the jab. But do you actually know whether that vaccine has been stored correctly, whether it's genuine, whether it'll do what it's supposed to do? Most owners don't ask — and clinics don't always volunteer the information. If you want confidence that your pet's vaccination is effective, you need to spot-check a few practical things before your appointment and during it.

Check the clinic's cold chain before you book

Vaccines are temperature-sensitive biologics. If they've been left in a hot car, stored next to the kettle, or thawed and refrozen, they lose potency. A broken cold chain means your pet might appear vaccinated on paper but isn't actually protected. When you contact a clinic, ask directly: "How do you store vaccines?" Listen for mention of a dedicated fridge or freezer with a thermometer, not a shared kitchen fridge. Ask whether they log temperatures daily — many professional clinics do, and they'll show you the records if you ask. If they're vague or dismissive, that's a warning sign. Also ask how long vaccines sit on a shelf after thawing; most should be used within a few hours. A clinic that can rattle off their cold-chain protocol without hesitation is one that takes it seriously.

Request proof of product and batch details

When you arrive for the appointment, ask to see the vaccine vial before it's administered. Check the label for the vaccine name, the batch number, and the expiry date. A responsible clinic will hand it over without fuss. Write down the batch number — if your pet has an unexpected reaction or if there's ever a product recall, you'll have this detail for your vet and for reporting to the relevant authorities if needed. Also ask the vet or nurse which vaccine they're giving and why. If you've done your homework on what your pet actually needs, you'll spot it if they're trying to push unnecessary boosters. Don't be embarrassed to ask; it's your pet and your money.

Phone previous clients and ask about their experience

The best way to gauge whether a clinic genuinely follows vaccine storage protocol is to ask owners whose pets have been vaccinated there. If a clinic has been operating for a few years, ask the reception team whether they can put you in touch with a reference client, or look for recent Google or Facebook reviews that mention vaccination services. When you speak to someone, ask: "Did the vet show you the vaccine before giving it?" "Did they explain what they were giving and why?" "Has your pet had any adverse reactions, and how did the clinic handle it?" Responsible clinics will have thought through these details because they've been asked before. If you can't find a single review mentioning vaccinations, or if reviews suggest vague or pushy practices, move on.

What to watch during the visit

Pay attention to whether the vet or nurse washes their hands and uses a fresh needle. Observe whether they handle the vaccine carefully — not shaking it roughly or leaving it in sunlight. If your pet reacts unusually after vaccination — persistent lethargy, swelling, or difficulty breathing — contact the clinic immediately and describe what happened. A good clinic will take this seriously and may report it. After the appointment, check your pet's vaccination card. It should record the vaccine name, date, batch number, and the vet's or nurse's signature. If key details are missing, ask the clinic to fill them in before you leave.

Finding a clinic you trust means asking these questions upfront and watching for professionalism on the day. On Strove, you can read detailed reviews from other pet owners and check whether clinics have been verified before you book.