10 Things to Ask Your Veterinarian At Your First Visit

New pet owners are often not aware of all the questions they should be asking their vet. Don’t be afraid to ask anything that comes to mind! After all, they will be the ones looking after your dog for their entire life. Once your puppy arrives, you will want to feel prepared, and your vet can help with this. Read our list of 10 things to ask your veterinarian:

1. Ask about the clinic hours

If your puppy gets in a tussle with a porcupine at 11 pm on a Saturday, what are your options? Having an open vet for reasonable hours that don’t completely conflict with your work schedule is valuable.

2. What type of situations is your vet equipped to deal with?

Surgery, X-ray, and anesthetic capabilities are important at a vet’s office and should be discussed. Be confident in knowing everything your clinic is available to offer.

3. Which parasites (if any) are prevalent in your area?

What can be done to prevent parasites from infecting your pet? Some areas may have new or ongoing issues that your vet will most likely know about and have solutions for.

4. Ask about vaccines

What vaccines does your puppy need, and what schedule would they recommend? Your veterinarian can help you decide the most appropriate vaccination program for your puppy. It is crucial to get your pet immunized against things like Parvovirus. Vaccinations are essential in preventing infectious diseases in puppies. Make sure you have a schedule set for these vaccines. Also, ask about deworming and when they recommend this take place.

5. Ask your vet about pet insurance

If you are interested, be sure to ask your vet about pet insurance. Veterinarians are often educated on the matter of pet insurance. Ask them if they can direct you to a good provider. Also, ask what type of insurance they accept.

6. Training and behavioral questions

Your vet not only knows the physiological aspects of dogs, but many of them are very open to discussing training and behavior. Pick their brain! They might be able to provide some insight on questions you have regarding your pup’s behavior.

7. At what age should you spay or neuter your puppy?

Spaying or neutering your new puppy has many benefits. Spaying or neutering reduces the chance that your puppy will develop various diseases later on in its life. This procedure decreases the risk of your dog developing unwanted behavior and their desire to roam, causing them to run away from home. Spaying or neutering also eliminates the chance of your dog having unwanted offspring, which contributes to the pet overpopulation problem in North America.

8. Ask about 24-hour pet hospitals

Ask your veterinarian or breeder where the closest 24-hour pet hospital is. This is crucial information should your pet need emergency medical care.

9. Can they recommend a pet sitter?

Should you need one, these contacts are convenient to have. Having a pet sitter that comes with a solid recommendation is critical. As a result, you will be aware of trustworthy options for leaving your pet with someone else.

10. What checkup schedule do they recommend?

It is recommended that your puppy be taken to the vet at set intervals. It is important to make sure their health is in check, much like people. Ask your vet what schedule they have their pups can in for checkups and why.

Your veterinarian will play an essential role in maintaining a happy, healthy, and playful puppy. Make sure to ask them these questions before you bring your puppy home. This will help to ensure your first vet visit with your pup goes smoothly. Take notes on all their answers and grab any emergency phone numbers or information pamphlets they can provide.