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Puppy’s First Vet Visit: Checklist

Puppy’s First Vet Visit: Checklist

If you have a new puppy, one of the first things you should do is schedule a veterinary appointment. Our Rockland County vets offer a checklist, as well as discuss what you should expect during your puppy's first vet visit. 

What Happens During The First Vet Visit

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time for everyone involved. One of the first things you should do however is book a visit with your vet for your new pet. Your vet will fully examine your puppy as well as run any diagnostic tests that may be necessary.  It is at this time that your vet will also review any health records that you have provided for your new puppy. 

During this first examination your vet will:

  • Weigh your new puppy
  • Use a stethoscope to listen to the heart and lungs 
  • Take your pup's temperature
  • Examine eyes, ears, nose, feet, and genitalia
  • Examine skin and coat
  • Look at teeth and mouth
  • Palpate abdomen and lymph nodes
  • Examine feces (it is recommended to bring a fresh sample if possible)
  • Discuss the puppy’s history and any questions you may have

If your vet prescribes any medications it is important to know when and how they are given. Be sure that you fully understand how to administer the medication and follow the directions and schedule exactly as recommended. Your vet will also set up any follow-up visits as well as vaccinations that your new puppy will need. 

Questions to ask your vet

Your time with your vet during your new puppy's first visit is extremely valuable. Aside from the examination, it is a great time to discuss any concerns you might have about caring for your new pup. The entire team at Rockland Veterinary will provide you with information while you are at your first vet visit so it may be a good idea to prepare any questions or concerns you have ahead of time.

Some common questions that are asked during a puppy's first vet visit are:

Checklist for the first visit

Here are some of the things you should consider leading up to your puppy's first vet visit:

  • Be sure to have any records that you received with your puppy available for your vet to view
  • Have a written list ready of any questions you need to ask 
  • You should keep track of the brand and amount of food as well as any treats you feed your new puppy
  • Prepare a dog carrier with your new puppy's favorite blanket and toys
  • Pack your puppy's leash and/or harness
  • Having chew toys on hand is a great idea
  • Small treats can be useful as rewards for good behavior at the vet
  • Ensure that you have all required documents and forms completed
  • If possible be sure to bring a fresh stool sample for your vet to perform a fecal exam

Cost of the first vet visit

Your puppy's first veterinary visit is a routine appointment and the cost will be determined accordingly. Typically all vet costs vary depending on the clinic itself as well as the location of the clinic. It is a good idea to call ahead and have a quick chat while booking the first appointment to discuss any costs that might be associated with that first visit. It might also be a good idea to briefly discuss any wellness plans that the clinic offers, as well as recommendations for pet insurance, as these are both great ways to keep costs down. 

While it may seem like the cost associated with routine preventive care seems high, these visits will help to ensure the overall and lifelong health of your new puppy. A healthy puppy is a happy puppy. 

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Have you added a new furry friend to your family? Contact our vets at Rockland Veterinary to book your new puppy's first visit.  

We are now accepting new patients!

At Rockland Veterinary we are passionate about animals and enjoy helping cats and dogs feel well. Contact our vets in Hudson Valley, North Rockland or Pomona today to schedule your furry companion's first appointment! 

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