When you get a new pet, you should take them to the veterinarian for a checkup within the first few days. This will help you plan for your pet’s care and familiarize your vet with you and your pet so they can offer quality care for many happy years to come. During your visit, be sure to find out the information you need to make smart pet care decisions.

What to Learn From Your First Vet Visit

1. Caring for Your Pet at Home

While there are some general recommendations available about feeding and grooming, every pet is different. Your veterinarian will examine your pet for weight issues or health conditions that might require a special diet and will advise you about how food portions and mealtimes.

They’ll also offer grooming tips for your pet’s coat type—for example, using a pin brush for long-haired dogs and a bristle brush for short-haired breeds. Finally, they‘ll show you how to clean your pet’s teeth and trim their nails, if needed.

2. Taking Extra Safety Precautions

In addition to your pet’s daily care, there are a few ways to protect them from accidents, illnesses, and losses. You can have your pet microchipped and registered in case they get lost, and pet insurance is available to help cover the cost of any emergency care. While not all owners take these steps, they may be appropriate depending on your pet, your home, and your neighborhood.

3. Scheduling Future Appointments

If you have a pet under 16 weeks old, they’ll need to come in regularly over the next few months for kitten or puppy vaccines. You can also schedule pet spaying or neutering at 6 months of age.

After that, your pet should come back for a checkup at one year and annually after that. Ask your vet about worrying signs that mean your pet needs more immediate care, such as changes in appetite and energy, trouble breathing, or signs of pain.

To start your new pet off with the care they need for a happy life, make an appointment at Lillian Veterinary Hospital. Serving Baldwin County, AL, for over 22 years, their veterinarians offer the latest technology and treatments in a friendly rural setting. Call (251) 962-2304 or get in touch online to schedule your first visit today.