Your New Pet's First Visit to the Veterinarian

Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting time, but it's also important to prioritize his or her health and well-being from the start. One of the first steps in responsible pet ownership is scheduling the initial visit to the veterinarian. Before visiting us at Eglinton Dufferin Animal Clinic in York, ON, take a look at what to expect during your appointment below:

Scheduling the Appointment

The first step in ensuring your new pet's health is scheduling their initial veterinary appointment promptly. Most veterinarians recommend scheduling this visit within the first few days of bringing your pet home, especially for puppies and kittens. Early veterinary care is crucial for identifying any potential health issues and establishing a preventive care plan tailored to your pet's needs.

Gathering Important Information

Before the appointment, gather any information provided by the breeder, shelter, or previous owner. This may include vaccination records, medical history, and any medications your pet is currently taking. Providing this information to our veterinarians will help them assess your pet's health status and determine the appropriate course of action.

Preparing Your Pet for the Visit

Visiting the veterinarian can be stressful for pets, especially if it's their first time. Help alleviate any anxiety by introducing your cat or dog to its carrier or leash beforehand and making the experience as positive as possible. Additionally, refrain from feeding your furry friend for a few hours before the appointment, as some procedures may require fasting.

What to Expect During the Appointment

During the visit, our veterinarians will perform a comprehensive physical examination to evaluate your pet's overall health. We may check his or her weight, heart rate, temperature, and examine its eyes, ears, mouth, and coat. Depending on your pet's age and medical history, our vets may also recommend vaccinations, deworming, or flea and tick prevention.

Discussing Preventive Care

Following the physical examination, we will discuss preventive care recommendations for your pet's individual needs. This may include establishing a vaccination schedule, discussing nutrition and diet, parasite prevention, and spaying or neutering if applicable. Our veterinarians will also address any questions or concerns you may have about your cat or dog’s health and well-being.

Scheduling a Follow-Up Appointment

Our vets might suggest scheduling a follow-up appointment for any necessary vaccinations or procedures after the initial visit. It's essential to adhere to these recommendations and keep up with your pet's preventive care to ensure it leads a happy and healthy life.

Contact Eglinton Dufferin Animal Clinic for an Appointment Today

If you've recently welcomed a new pet into your family or need veterinary care for your furry friend, contact Eglinton Dufferin Animal Clinic in York, ON, at (647) 352-2201. We are committed to providing healthy care to ensure your pet stays healthy. Call us today to learn more about our services and to set up your appointment!