When your puppy reaches 8 to 10 weeks of age, it is highly recommended you bring him or her to the vet for their first exam. Having your local vet take a look at your pup and providing them with the necessary vaccinations is valuable to promoting a healthy development.
But what exactly will be done during your puppy’s first vet exam? And what preparations do you need to make? Here’s a sneak peek.
Expect Some Q and A
The first thing you’ll be asked is how things are going with your puppy. If there’s anything alarming or unusual that you think might be worth bringing up at this point, do express your concern, as it could change how your vet approaches the checkup. If everything’s fine, expect additional questions about your puppy’s behavior, eating habits and other related issues.
Don’t let the brief question-and-answer exchange pass without asking the vet for advice on behavioral or health problems you’ve encountered so far, or for insight into matters you’re worried or unsure about. To make the most out of this opportunity, jot down all your questions prior to your visit so you don’t miss out on anything.
A Brief Physical Exam Will Take Place
This is a routine procedure vets carry out to ensure that your dog’s development is on track and to rule out any abnormalities or ailments.
Most exams begin with your puppy being weighed. His or her temperature will be taken next, to make sure it is between the 101 and 102.5 Fahrenheit. Their heart and pulse will be checked next to detect possible heart murmurs or any breathing problems. A quick inspection of your puppy’s eyes, ears, nose, teeth, gums and lower regions will be done as well.
If something doesn’t appear, feel, sound or smell right with your puppy, your vet might go over that body part further or request from you permission to perform further testing.
During the exam, avoid acting worried or anxious around your puppy as they will pick up on your emotions and thus end up feeling the same about their vet. It’s crucial to establish a positive attitude at the office during this stage, so he or she doesn’t end up dreading future visits.
Parasites Will Be Searched For
Puppies are typically born with roundworms, so your vet will test your dog’s stool (based on a fecal sample) for roundworms, as well as for possible tapeworms and hookworms. The first of two rounds of de-worming medication are typically provided.
The vet will also check your puppy’s coat for fleas and ticks. If any parasites are found, you will receive further instructions and medication to resolve the problem.
Lastly, There’s a Series of Vaccines
It is standard for puppies to receive their initial vaccinations during their first vet visit. Diseases that require vaccines right away include distemper, hepatitis, bordetella, rabies, canine influenza and leptospirosis. Depending on you and your pet’s lifestyle, other additional vaccines may prove beneficial. Your vet will usually ask you to return in two to four weeks for booster shots, which are required until your puppy reaches a particular age depending on their breed.
Besides arranging your puppy’s vaccination schedule, your vet will probably set your next appointment for a general checkup and discuss spay or neuter options with you. Additional dog care tips and recommendations will be provided based on the exam that just took place.
Before you leave, make sure you have all of your last-minute concerns addressed. Vet visits are key to keeping your puppy grow up healthy and happy, so it helps to have everything covered.
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