You have been anticipating this exciting day for weeks or even months. Your new puppy is about to come home with you. You probably prepared everything you think you need. You purchased dog food, a crate, leash, toys, collar, and other necessities. Everyone is excited!
You probably chose a dog facility for socialization and training. You think you are ready to start a new adventure with your little furry friend. You are about to make a friendship that will last for years. However, did you schedule their first wellness exam yet?
Wellness Exams for Puppies
As a new dog owner, you need to understand one important thing. It is never too early to take a puppy to a veterinarian’s office for a wellness exam. They will be a member of your family, so it is your responsibility to keep them healthy, happy, and in top shape. Fortunately, a good veterinarian will give you established tips for success.
How to Find a Good Veterinarian
Finding a skilled and reliable veterinarian is not as difficult as you might think. You simply need to ask other pet owners in your neighborhood, your friends, and/or family members. You can even ask someone walking their dog for a local vet recommendation. You can also utilize reviews online.
You should find a local veterinarian or pet clinic to make it more convenient for you. This is especially important when it comes to emergency treatment in case of a problem. You can also visit the websites for veterinarians and animal hospitals near you for vital information.
Why Puppies Need a Wellness Exam
Puppies often act like they are up for anything. However, just like children, they have an immature immune system. Hence, they are quite susceptible to injury and illnesses. As a caring pet owner, you need to schedule a veterinarian visit within the first few days of bringing them home.
To keep your young furry companion healthy, you must begin his/her preventative care as early as possible. As everyone knows, prevention is always better than cure. A wellness exam will determine whether your puppy needs treatment for a specific condition. This will allow for treatment before the condition worsens or becomes life-threatening.
What to Expect
When taking your new puppy for their first wellness exam, you should expect the veterinary staff or veterinarian to ask you several questions. This should not scare you. As a new pet parent, no question should scare you. Your veterinarian simply wants to have an idea of how your puppy is doing. Your veterinarian will then perform the following tests:
Weight check
Examination of your puppy’s body, including the skin, genitalia, eyes, feet, nose, nails, and coat
Measurement of their pulse, temperature, and respiratory rates
Examination of the ears and eyes using instruments that provide magnification and light
Movement examination
Observation of the teeth and gums, as well as other surrounding structures
Feeling the puppy’s joints, nodes, and organs within their abdomen
Reflex test
Listening to the lungs and heart
The veterinarian may also need to collect a stool sample to check for intestinal parasites. If your young fur-faced friend is more than six months of age, the veterinarian may also draw some blood to check for heartworms. Other lab work may be necessary, but that is on an as-need basis.
To learn more about wellness exams for puppies, contact Highland Veterinary Clinic at our office in Evansville, Indiana. You can call 812-710-4300 today to schedule an appointment.
