Bringing home a puppy is a time of excitement and fun, but eventually that ball of fluff and cuteness is going to need to go to the vet.
Even if they’re healthy, your puppy will need to be seen by a veterinarian and administered vaccinations.
So, how can you help to prepare your new fur baby for their first visit with the vet? Keep reading to find out!
By Allison Salonko.
Allison is a Veterinary Technician in the state of Indiana. She graduated from International Business College and Vet Tech Institute of Indianapolis with a degree in Animal Science and Technology in 2011.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through these links. This is at no extra cost to you.
Your Puppy’s Vet Visit Checklist
When going to the veterinarian with your puppy, it can be helpful if you make yourself a checklist.
This can include items you need to bring or even just questions that you have regarding taking care of your new companion.
- All documents given to you by the breeder, rescue or shelter you adopted your puppy through. It is especially important to bring anything with previous vaccination information or a microchip number.
- Know what kind of food you are feeding your puppy and how much so you can discuss if this is appropriate for your dog.
- Ask any questions that you may have, no matter how silly you may think they are.
- And of course, bring your puppy! The veterinary staff will be squealing with joy over your adorable little fur baby.
Make The Visit Fun!
One of the best ways to make your puppy’s first veterinary visit less stressful is to simply make it fun!
Bring their toys and treats and let them play in the room (if they want).
Encourage them to explore and become more comfortable while you are waiting for the technician or the veterinarian to come in.
This playtime in the room helps to positively associate the veterinary office and the process of waiting in the room, instead of making it seem so intimidating and strange.
When the person enters the exam room, try to encourage them to play and feed your puppy treats.
This is another way to positively associate the vet clinic.
Schedule A Visit And Trial Run
If you are unsure of the clinic that you have chosen or you’d like to just bring your puppy in for a quick meet and greet, that is totally fine!
As a matter of fact, many veterinary hospitals recommend bringing your dog (whether they’re young or old) into the office for weight checks and maybe even some treats and happy pets.
When you only bring the dog in for a moment and they are gushed on by the front desk staff and given lots of yummy treats, they are more likely to be happy the next time they enter the clinic, instead of frightened.
Treats Before And During Pokes
Most young things, including human children, don’t enjoy being poked with needles.
I mean, who can blame them?
It hurts and it feels super weird, plus a puppy genuinely doesn’t understand the need to inflict pain when they were just kissed all over.
One way to combat the reaction to being poked with a ouchy needle is to give them LOTS of treats and positive affirmations.
Puppies usually love food, so it makes sense that smearing a little peanut butter on the table or tossing their kibbles down will help keep them distracted!
Conclusion: Preparing Your Pup For Their First Vet Visit
While many owners may fret over the idea of taking their adorable new fur baby to their first veterinary visit, it is truly an important aspect of pet ownership.
Vaccinations protect them and the worst thing that happens is that they get a little pinch in the booty.
Before and after, it’s all about the fun, happy staff members and puppy kisses!
Photo by Jamin.