1. Make an appointment with a veterinarian.
It is important to find a veterinarian that you trust and feel comfortable with. You will need to take your puppy in for a check-up and to receive any necessary vaccinations.
2. Bring your puppy to the appointment.
Be sure to bring your puppy along with all of their required paperwork, such as their health certificate and vaccination records.
3. Complete a physical exam.
The veterinarian will perform a physical exam on your puppy to check their overall health and wellness. This will include checking their heart rate, lungs, and overall condition.
4. Check the overall health of your puppy.
The vet will also take a look at your pup's eyes, ears, skin, and coat. They will also palpate their abdomen to check for any abnormalities.
5. Administer any necessary vaccinations, such as rabies and distemper shots.
Depending on your puppy's age, they may need certain vaccinations before they can be discharged from the vet's office. Rabies and distemper are two of the most common shots administered during a puppy's first vet visit.
6. Discuss preventive measures for keeping your puppy healthy, such as heartworm and tick prevention.
The vet will likely discuss preventive measures for keeping your puppy healthy during their first visit. This may include medications or products that can help protect them from parasites or other health risks.
7. Get a health certificate, if needed.
Some states may require a health certificate in order to transport your puppy across state lines. Your veterinarian can provide you with more information on this process if needed.
8. Ask any questions you have about caring for your puppy.
During the first vet visit, you may have many questions about caring for your new pet. Be sure to ask the veterinarian any questions you have so you can be confident in providing optimal care for your pup.
9. Schedule a follow-up appointment, if needed.
Your veterinarian may recommend a follow-up visit to ensure that your puppy is healthy and on track developmentally. This will typically occur 4-6 weeks after the initial visit.