Your new puppy has won your heart and has brought joy and laughter to your home. Now it's up to you to ensure that your new fur baby receives the vital veterinary care they need to thrive. Here, our Greensboro vets discuss what to expect during your puppy's first vet visit.
What Will Happen During Your Puppy's First Checkup
If it's time to take your puppy to their first vet appointment you may be wondering exactly what their first appointment will involve. Below are a few of the things that are likely to take place when your puppy sees their vet for the very first time:
- Weigh the puppy
- Listen to the heart and lungs
- Take puppy's temperature
- Examine the puppy's eyes, ears, nose, feet, and genitalia
- Examine the puppy's skin and coat
- Look at the puppy's teeth and mouth
- Palpate abdomen and lymph nodes
- Examine the feces for the presence of worms (you should bring a stool sample if you can)
- Discuss the puppy’s history and any questions you might have about feeding, medical issues, and future care
Puppy First Vet Visit Checklist
The more information you can give your vet about your new fur baby, the better they will be able to assess your pup's overall health. To help you arrive at your vet's office fully prepared, here is a handy puppy first vet visit checklist. We recommend bringing along the following:
- Any veterinary records you received from the breeder or shelter
- A written list of important questions or concerns that you might have
- Notes on how much of what types of foods and treats you offer at home
- A dog carrier or crate lined with some old towels or shirts that smell like home
- A leash and collar or harness
- A chew toy for distraction
- Small treats to reward good behavior
- Any forms provided by your veterinarian that you have already filled out
- A stool sample, as fresh as possible
Note that most small puppies feel more comfortable and safe in a crate. Don't underestimate how wiggly and unruly your puppy may become while in a new environment, especially a veterinary office that is filled with lots of other pet smells. Your puppy will need to be kept under control at all times using a leash and collar or harness. This is why a chew toy or some treats are a good idea.
What to Ask a Vet on First Puppy Visit
Your veterinarian should be able to give you all of the information you require to help your puppy grow. Based on the information above, if you have any questions that you believe they have overlooked, or if the information they have supplied is confusing, don't hesitate to ask for clarification.
Having said that, a list of questions can help make the most out of your first visit. Here is a list of some good questions to ask your vet during the visit.
Health & Safety
- How often does my puppy need to come to the vet?
- When should I spay or neuter my puppy?
- Should I microchip my dog?
- How many times a day should my puppy poop?
- Are there any health concerns specific to my puppy’s breed(s)?
- Does my puppy need flea and tick prevention?
- What is heartworm disease and why is prevention important?
Training & Behavior
- When can my puppy go to the pet store/dog park/groomer?
- Do you recommend crate training?
- How long can she stay in her crate?
- How do you potty train a puppy?
- How much exercise does my puppy need?
- How do I socialize my puppy with other humans and dogs?
- Do you know any local trainers?
Food
- What is the best food to meet my puppy's nutritional needs?
- How many times a day should my puppy eat?
- When do puppies switch to adult dog food?
Puppy First Vet Visit Cost
The majority of what happens during a puppy's first vet appointment is routine, but costs can be determined by a variety of factors like location, vaccines, and prescribed medications. Veterinary wellness programs, vaccination clinics, and pet insurance can all help you save money. You can contact your vet directly for a more precise quote so there are no nasty surprises.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.