Bringing Home a Puppy

Adding a new puppy to your home is an exciting and joyful experience for you and your family. However, being a responsible dog owner means ensuring that your puppy receives proper care from the very beginning. When you bring home a puppy, one of the most important steps for their long-term health is scheduling their first visit to the veterinarian. At Southside Veterinary Hospital, we assist pet owners in Vero Beach with all their pet care needs, including comprehensive puppy wellness check-ups. Here's what you should expect during this essential appointment:

Bringing Your Puppy for Their First Veterinarian Visit

You should not delay your puppy's first vet visit; it's crucial to schedule it as soon as possible. During this initial appointment, your veterinarian will conduct a general physical exam and check for any underlying health issues that require attention. Puppies typically need a series of early vet visits, approximately every three to four weeks, until they reach around four to five months of age.

What Happens During the First Vet Visit

During your puppy's first vet visit, a thorough examination will take place. This examination includes assessing your puppy's weight, observing their range of motion, examining various aspects of their body, such as teeth, eyes, hearing, senses, and reflexes. The veterinarian will also check their pulse, temperature, and palpate their joints and organs. Additionally, the first two visits usually include necessary vaccinations, and when your puppy reaches eight weeks of age, microchipping will be performed.

Topics Your Veterinarian Will Cover

As a new puppy owner, your veterinarian will discuss essential aspects of puppy ownership and care. These topics may encompass general care guidelines, including grooming, dental care, dietary recommendations, vaccination schedules, proper play, socialization, behavioral training, identification methods like tags and microchipping, spaying and neutering, traveling with your puppy, and disease prevention. Don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have during this visit; your veterinarian is eager to provide you with the information you need.

Contact Southside Veterinary Hospital in Vero Beach, FL

Are you looking for a veterinarian near me? At Southside Veterinary Hospital, we are a full-service veterinary facility committed to delivering top-notch care to residents of Vero Beach and the surrounding communities. We understand the profound importance of pets within families and are dedicated to providing the support and expert care necessary to ensure your pets lead healthy and happy lives. As a cherished member of your family, welcoming a puppy into your home is a momentous occasion. We eagerly look forward to providing you with dependable veterinary care you can trust for your new furry companion.