Your puppy’s health is your first priority, so it’s important to schedule their first vet appointment in a timely manner. Going to the vet can be nerve-wracking for pups and owners alike, but these tips from the Embark veterinary team will help make it a positive experience.
You should schedule the first vet appointment for your puppy as soon as they’re eight weeks old. If you brought home a puppy older than that, schedule an appointment within your first three days with them. Even if they’ve seen a veterinarian before, you need to find a local vet for ongoing care.
Before the first appointment: Choosing a vet
The vet you choose is an important decision. You can start by checking the American Animal Hospital Association’s website for accredited animal hospitals. Their hospital locator will show hospitals near you that go above and beyond the state-required standards of care. You can also ask friends and family members in your neighborhood for recommendations.
Once you have a list of hospitals, go to their websites to find out more about the type of care they offer and what their practice focuses on. For example, “Fear Free” is a new movement in the veterinary world to make dogs happy and comfortable when coming to the vet. Fear Free hospitals may be more willing to take their time to ensure a positive experience for their patients.
Go beyond the website and call each hospital that interests you to try scheduling an appointment. What kind of impression do they…
Planning The First Vet Appointment For Your Puppy. Retrieved February 27, 2021 from https://embarkvet.com/resources/dog-health/getting-ready-for-your-puppys-first-vet-appointment/