If you are a new puppy owner, our veterinarians located throughout Orlando will guide you through everything you need to know to have a successful first vet visit. Prepare for your visit with our comprehensive puppy first vet visit checklist.
When should you take your puppy for its first vet visit?
It is recommended that you schedule your new puppy's first vet visit within a few days of bringing it home. During this visit, the vet will review your puppy's records, perform a physical examination, and check for any health concerns.
Your puppy will typically have appointments every 3-4 weeks, starting at 6-8 weeks old and ending at 4-5 months old. First vaccinations usually begin at 6-8 weeks old.
If your puppy is older than 4-5 months, they can still be vaccinated in two visits, spaced 3-4 weeks apart. Your vet may adjust the plan based on your puppy's needs.
Before your appointment, you should collect as much information as possible.
Puppy’s First Vet Visit Checklist
- Any veterinary records you received from the breeder or shelter
- A written list of important questions
- Notes on how much of what types of foods and treats you have
- Dog carrier or crate lined with some old towels
- Leash and collar or harness
- Chew toy for distraction
- Small treats to reward good behavior
- Any forms provided by your vet that you have already filled out
- A stool sample, as fresh as possible
If you plan to take your small puppy to the clinic, it is recommended that you bring a crate with you. The crate will help the puppy feel more comfortable and secure while traveling. You should not assume that you can hold your puppy in your arms during the trip, as the new sights, sounds, and smells can be overwhelming for them. It is also important to bring a leash or harness with you to keep your dog under control if it becomes stressed.
What to Expect During Your Puppy’s First Vet Visit
Veterinary staff will start the visit by asking you a series of questions about your puppy’s history and how they are doing at home, followed by:
- A weight check
- A complete physical examination, which includes
- Observing the puppy move around the exam room
- Looking at the whole body including the eyes, ears, nose, feet, nails, skin, coat, and genitalia
- Using a stethoscope to listen to the heart and lungs
- Checking reflexes
- Measuring temperature pulse and respiratory
- Opening the mouth to check out the teeth, gums, and other structures
- Checking the eyes and ears
- Palpating the lymph nodes, joints, and organs within the abdomen
Throughout all the new puppy vet visits, the veterinary staff will discuss many important aspects of puppy care with you including.
- Dental care
- Grooming needs
- Nutrition
- Flea, tick, heartworm, and internal parasite control
- Vaccination schedules
- Exercise and play requirements
- Behavior and socialization
- Pet identification, including microchips and tags
- Reproductive health, including the benefits and risks of spaying and neutering
- Travel requirements
- Pet safety and disaster preparedness
- Diseases that can be spread from pets to people (and vice versa)
What should you ask your vet about the first puppy visit?
Your veterinarian will provide you with all the necessary information to take care of your puppy. However, make sure to review important topics and don't hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification.
