What to expect at your pet’s first vet visit
Your pet’s first vet visit is exciting, and knowing what to expect can help eliminate any unneeded stress. Therefore, in this article I am going to discuss what your pet’s very first trip to the vet will likely entail. However, before I get started let me just say… CONGRATULATIONS!!!
As you prepare, I strongly encourage you to check out my other article, “10 Questions to Ask at Your Pet’s First Vet Visit”, to make sure you come well-prepared. Let’s get started! Below you will find a step-by-step breakdown of a routine veterinary visit for a new pet.
1. Picking the right veterinarian
Perhaps you have already chosen which veterinary clinic you plan to bring your new pet for their first vet visit, in which case feel free to skip ahead to the next section. However, if this has not yet been decided I encourage you to keep reading. It is important to find a veterinary clinic that suits the needs of you and your new pet. Things to consider include:
Proximity
Finding a Veterinary Clinic Close to Home
It’s good to choose a veterinary clinic that is within a 20-minute drive from where you live. A nearby clinic makes it more convenient to get to appointments and pick up medications or pet supplies. It also makes the drive shorter and therefore less stressful for pets that dislike car rides.
Services Offered
Comprehensive Care for Your Pet
Research what services the clinic offers. Most clinics provide routine services, such as vaccinations and X-rays; but only certain clinics offer advanced treatments like laser therapy, ultrasound, and/or holistic care.
Financial Considerations
Understanding the Costs
Veterinary care can be costly, so it’s important to ask about the costs of services at various clinics. Compare pricing — although many clinics in the same area may have similar rates, there can be noticeable differences. Gathering this information will help you create a budget and choose a vet clinic that offers both the services you need and fees that fit within your financial limits.
2. Preparing for the veterinary visit
Most clinics prefer that you arrive at the clinic 5-10 minutes before your pet’s appointment. Bring any of their records like vaccination history, microchip information, and adoption papers. These documents will be included in the pet’s medical file for the vet’s reference. Transport cats in a proper carrier covered with a blanket or towel, and keep dogs on a leash when entering the clinic.
3. When you arrive at the clinic
Upon arrival for your pet’s first vet visit, you will likely be welcomed by the receptionist who will confirm your pet’s information. Then, you will be directed to wait until a staff member (typically a vet assistant or technician) invites you to an exam room. Most clinics weigh medium and large dogs before going into the exam room, and cats and small dogs are typically weighed inside the room on a smaller scale.
4. History
A staff member will then start the visit by asking a series of questions. This information is relayed to the veterinarian to help him/her address any issues, answer questions, make recommendations, and come up with a plan for the visit. Common questions that you may be asked include:
- When did you bring your new pet home and how do you feel he/she is adjusting?
- Where did you get your pet?
- What and how much do you feed your pet?
- Describe your pet’s activity level and appetite.
- Has your pet been having any episodes of vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, or sneezing?
- If not done so already, are you planning to have your pet spayed/neutered?
- Describe any issues/concerns you have about your new pet.
- What questions do you have that you wish to discuss with the veterinarian?
In addition, a staff member will review any previous records you brought to determine if your pet needs specific services, such as vaccinations.
5. Physical Exam
The staff member will then relay your pet’s information to the veterinarian. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination of your pet. Often, a veterinary assistant or technician will help hold your pet while the veterinarian performs the exam. You may be asked to help by distracting your pet with treats. Following the exam, the vet will discuss any concerns or abnormal findings and answer any questions. The vet will go over what services your pet is due for, such as vaccines.
6. Possible vaccine/tests
If your pet is due for any services, they will be performed at this time. Some clinics administer vaccinations and perform blood draws in the exam room, while other clinics will take your pet back to the treatment area. Vaccinations are typically administered by the technician or veterinarian and blood draws are typically performed by an assistant or technician.
7. Pay the bill and set up the next vet visit
Once all services have been performed, a staff member will go over any additional questions you may have. You will then be escorted back to the clinic’s main reception area to pay the bill and set up any needed future appointments. Please note that most veterinary clinics require bills to be paid in full prior to leaving the clinic.
I hope this article shed some light on what to expect on your pet’s first veterinary visit. Although the first visit to the vet can be overwhelming, this should provide you with the general information necessary to prepare for the visit and decrease stress. Once again, congratulations on your new pet!
