What to Expect During Your First Vet Visit
Your pet's first veterinary visit will include a thorough physical examination, vaccination assessment, parasite prevention discussion, and behavioral evaluation to establish baseline health and prevent diseases.
Initial Check-in and History Taking
When you arrive at the veterinary clinic for your pet's first visit, you can expect:
- Registration paperwork to collect your contact information and your pet's basic details
- Brief questions about your pet's health history, including:
- Previous vaccinations (if any)
- Diet and eating habits
- Bathroom habits
- Any concerning behaviors or symptoms
- Previous medical issues
The Physical Examination
The veterinarian will perform a comprehensive physical examination, which typically includes:
- Weight measurement and body condition scoring
- Temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate assessment
- Examination of the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth
- Special attention to dental health, as periodontal disease is the most common abnormality in dogs and cats 1
- Listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope
- Palpation of the abdomen to check internal organs
- Examination of the skin and coat
- Assessment of the musculoskeletal system
Research shows that most pets (70% of dogs and 76% of cats) can complete a physical examination without significant restraint 2.
Vaccinations and Preventive Care
Your veterinarian will discuss and likely administer:
- Age-appropriate vaccinations based on your pet's lifestyle and risk factors
- Parasite prevention recommendations, which may include:
- Heartworm preventatives
- Flea and tick control products 3
- Intestinal parasite control
Laboratory Testing
Depending on your pet's age and health status, your veterinarian may recommend:
- Fecal examination to check for intestinal parasites
- Blood tests to establish baseline values or screen for common diseases
- Heartworm testing (for dogs)
- FeLV/FIV testing (for cats)
Behavioral Assessment
The veterinarian will observe your pet's behavior and may:
- Discuss normal versus concerning behaviors
- Provide advice on training and socialization
- Address any behavioral concerns you might have
Rabies Vaccination and Legal Requirements
Most jurisdictions require rabies vaccination for pets:
- Your pet may receive a rabies vaccine during the first visit if age-appropriate
- You'll receive documentation of vaccination for legal purposes 4
- The veterinarian will explain the rabies vaccination schedule and legal requirements
Preventive Health Plan
Before you leave, expect to receive:
- A written preventive healthcare plan
- Recommendations for follow-up visits
- Information about emergency services
- Educational materials about pet care
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Waiting too long for the first visit: Puppies and kittens should see a veterinarian shortly after acquisition
- Not bringing stool samples: Fresh stool samples help diagnose intestinal parasites
- Forgetting vaccination records: Bring any previous medical records to avoid unnecessary vaccinations
- Not mentioning behavioral concerns: The first visit is an excellent time to address training and behavior issues
Special Considerations
- For anxious pets: Consider using a carrier for cats or a secure leash for dogs
- For rescue animals: Be prepared for more extensive testing if the health history is unknown
- For exotic pets: Call ahead to ensure the veterinarian has experience with your species
Remember that establishing a good relationship with your veterinarian is essential for your pet's long-term health. The first visit sets the foundation for all future care.