Puppy’s First Vet Visit: What to Expect, Checklist, & Tips

Taking your puppy to the vet for the first time can be a stressful ordeal. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself and your pet for this first trip. With a little preparation and planning, you can greatly reduce your stress and ensure that your puppy has a smooth first vet visit.

Here’s everything you need to know about your new furry friend’s first visit to the veterinarian.

Why Should You Take Your Puppy to the Vet?

First off, it’s important to remember why taking your puppy to the vet is so important. The answer is simple: because they need it! Your puppy needs regular checkups with a veterinarian so you can be sure they’re healthy. Regular visits are important to ensure that any issues will be caught early on before they become major problems.

What To Bring to the Veterinarian’s Office?

Puppies can be a lot of work, but they’re also a lot of fun. The first few weeks are especially important in helping your puppy get off to a healthy start.

Here’s a checklist of things to bring to your puppy’s first vet visit:

Proof of vaccinations.

Make sure to bring proof of the vaccinations, if any, that were given at the breeder or shelter. If you have not yet taken your puppy in for its first round of shots, be sure to schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian as soon as possible.

Medical records.

If you acquired your dog from a breeder, they should have provided you with a copy of his/her medical history. If it was from a rescue organization or shelter, they will provide you with a copy as well.

Medications.

You’ll also want to bring any medications or supplements your pup is taking, including flea and tick preventatives and heartworm medication. If it’s been a while since your puppy last took these medications, double check with your vet to make sure they’re up-to-date and that there aren’t any new requirements (like giving them more frequent doses).

A stool sample (if asked by the veterinarian) – A stool sample can help your vet diagnose any potential parasites, viruses, or bacteria that may be affecting your puppy’s health. It also helps them rule out certain conditions like parvovirus which could kill young puppies if left untreated.

Lots of treats.

If you have a nervous or anxious puppy, bringing treats can help make your pet more comfortable during the exam.

Chew toys.

Having distractions like a favourite toy can make it easier for your veterinarian and staff to examine your puppy.

What To Expect at Your Puppy’s First Wellness Exam?

The doctor will ask about your dog’s diet and exercise habits. They’ll also ask about any health issues you might have noticed with your new puppy. If there are any concerns, they’ll likely recommend further testing or treatment options.

Your puppy will get a full physical checkup. This includes looking at their ears and eyes, checking their teeth and gums, feeling their joints and spine, listening to their heart and lungs, checking their abdomen for any abnormalities or lumps, and more. Your puppy might need vaccines or other shots as well.

Your vet may also do blood tests on your pup to make sure everything looks good from an internal perspective as well. All these tests are important because they can help identify any health problems early on or catch them before they become serious issues later on in life.

A puppy’s first visit to the vet should be a positive experience—it’s step one in building a strong relationship between your pet and your veterinarian. By arming yourself with the right information beforehand, you can ensure your new puppy will get off on the right paw.

For more information please contact Langley Animal Clinic.