Your puppy’s first vet visit is an important milestone that sets the foundation for a long, happy life. If this is your first puppy, you might not know what to expect at the vet clinic or understand why that first appointment is so important. Here’s a closer look at what every new puppy owner should expect.

3 Important Parts of Your Puppy’s First Vet Visit

1. A Quick Health Evaluation

First, the veterinarian will conduct an evaluation to see if your puppy is growing and developing normally. During this exam, they’ll look closely at your new friend’s eyes and the condition of their coat, inspect the ears for signs of infection, and use a stethoscope to listen to their heartbeat and breathing.

The evaluation gives the vet a chance to detect hernias, nutritional deficiencies, or hearing problems that may need further attention. Many of these issues can be corrected with simple medication or a change in diet. However, the vet might also order additional testing or imaging that will help them create a treatment plan.

2. Vaccinations

Vaccines are one of the most important aspects of your puppy’s first appointment, helping protect them from a wide range of potentially life-threatening diseases. Vet clinics typically give vaccines in stages, so at the first appointment, your pup will likely be inoculated against parvo, bordetella, distemper, and canine influenza.

The first round of vaccines is typically given when pups are around eight weeks old. They’ll also need boosters for all these shots at 12 weeks and again at 16 weeks old, which is usually when they’ll get their rabies shot.

3. Fecal Test

Even if your puppy has received a deworming treatment, it’s very common for them to have roundworms. To look for signs of intestinal parasites, most vet clinics ask that you bring a fecal sample to your puppy’s first appointment. If they detect hookworms, roundworms, or other creatures, they’ll offer a treatment medication and likely ask you to bring another sample to the next visit.

If you’ve just gotten a puppy, you need a vet clinic known for providing the top-tier care and personal attention your new companion deserves. For over 40 years, TLC Pet Care Centers has been serving pets throughout the greater Cincinnati area, offering everything from routine checkups to surgical care. Visit their website for more on their preventative care services. To get in touch with their east Cincinnati location, call (513) 683-2300. Dial (513) 825-4011 to make an appointment at their clinic on the western side of the city.