Vets and Vaccinations: What You Need to Know

If you're the new owner of a puppy, one of the first things on your to-do list is likely to take them to the vet. But what should you expect during this appointment? Below are some top tips to help make your pup's first vet visit a success. Read on to discover more!

1. Prepare a list of questions to ask the vet

It's a good idea to prepare a list of questions before going in for your pup's first vet visit. Then, if you have any general concerns, write those down and ask the vet about them. Be sure to also inquire about treatments such as vaccines, parasite control, microchipping and heartworm testing. You might also want to ask how often your pup should have a checkup.

2. Bring along your pup's medical records, if possible

If you have existing medical history records for your pup, bring them with you to the appointment. This way, the vet can get an overview of what care they have received before and rule out any issues that may need further investigation.

3. Be prepared to discuss your pup's diet and exercise habits

The veterinarian will also want to get a general understanding of how much activity your pup receives each day and what they eat. This information can help your vet to provide advice that can help to prevent future health conditions from developing.

4. Ask about any potential risks or concerns relating to your pup's health that you should be aware of

Since every dog is different, you must prepare for potential questions from the vet beyond what breed they are and how much exercise they get daily. Make sure to ask about any potential risks related to their breed, such as hip dysplasia or bloat. You might also want to inquire about your pup's risk for specific conditions such as diabetes, cancer and arthritis.

5. Ask if you can contact the vet in between checkups

To help keep track of your dog's health and habits, you should ask if you can periodically contact the vet in between checkups. This way, any new questions that arise won't be forgotten when it's time for the next visit.

Be sure to take an active role during your pup's first veterinarian appointment! Preparing yourself with information beforehand will make things go much more smoothly both for you and your pet. For more information and advice about puppy vet checkups, contact a veterinary clinic today.