Making the First Visit Fun!
Other animals can be intimidating or even aggressive to unfamiliar or young animals. In the waiting room, keep your new pet in a carrier or on a leash to avoid any crisis with other animals. If possible, schedule the first few visits at a time when our clinic is the least crowded, to avoid such contact and stress.
Our staff is skilled at creating a positive experience during exam time. If you have concerns about an overly shy or aggressive pet, please mention this at the visit. We take the time to advise you on appropriate pet behavior and management, as well as fundamental training techniques.
What to Bring to the First Visit
Please bring any health records or documents you have received from the breeder, adoption facility, or previous veterinary clinic, outlining any vaccines given, parasite treatments, or other pertinent medical information. If possible, please bring the completed printable new client form with you and give it to the receptionist at check-in. If you are unable to complete this ahead of time, please arrive 10 minutes early to your scheduled appointment to allow time to fill out the information. We will add this to your pet’s medical records.
If possible, collect a fresh stool sample for this first visit to allow us to test for parasites. In addition, bring the name of the food you are giving your puppy, kitten, or adult pet, and the frequency and amount you have been feeding. The veterinarian will advise you about your current nutrition regime and make recommendations if needed.
The First Exam
Our initial exam is gentle and thorough. We weigh and examine your pet, assessing condition of the skin, coat, eyes, ears, teeth, gums, heart, lungs, abdomen, limbs, and overall health. At this visit, we initiate pet health protocols with vaccines and parasite prevention. We will discuss spay and neuter if this has not yet been done, as well as microchipping your pet.
We encourage you to bring any questions you have or topics for discussion regarding your pet’s health. We are here to listen, guide, and advise you throughout the life of your new companion.