Coronavirus Update:
Due to COVID-19, all pets are required to be picked up curbside and admitted through the front door. In most cases, we will ask for you to wait in your vehicle while your pet is being treated.
What to Expect on Your Trip to the Veterinarian
Bringing a new pet into the home is a big decision, whether you already have pets or this is your first one. There are a number of factors to consider when making this decision. From the breed, to how the pet will interact with your family, to the proper care, the list of considerations is long, but taking the time to think through the important details will help you make an informed decision for you, your family, and the pet.
First Visit Protocol
If you’re going through with the adoption process, one of the first things you’ll want to do for your new pet is to schedule a visit with a veterinarian. If you know the date of adoption in advance, it’s a good idea to conduct a preliminary visit to the veterinary clinic where you intend to take the pet. This will allow you to get a feel for the staff, doctors, and overall environment, and schedule your pet’s first appointment. While exact procedures vary from vet to vet and will differ depending upon the age and history of the pet, the first visit is, in general, the same for all cats and dogs. The American Kennel Club website and catstheboss.com list the things you should expect to be done during your dog or cat’s first visit to the vet:
- The dog or cat will be weighed
- Heart and lungs listened to
- Rectal temperature taken
- Ears, eyes, nose, feet, and genitalia examined
- Skin, coat, teeth and mouth examined
- Abdomen and lymph nodes palpated
- Feces examined (bring a sample) for worms (most pups have roundworms)
- Pet’s history and future care discussed
- Vaccinations given if necessary
- Testing for communicable diseases if necessary
- Vaccination schedule determined
- Vet Visits for Rescued Pets
While the above criteria is a standard list of what is done during a first visit, in some cases, specifically with rescued pets, the visit may be a bit different. There are many reasons why animals end up in shelters, so you may adopt a pet with a file full of medical history, detailed information regarding the pet’s personality, likes and dislikes, and former living environment. However, this is not always the case, and the veterinarian may need to conduct a more extensive exam and additional testing in order to determine the overall health of your new pet if you have very little history coming in.
About Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro
The Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro is a full service veterinary clinic that treats pets of all ages and backgrounds. We provide appropriate, informed care for our patients from weeks old to old age. From spaying and neutering to vaccines and dental care, our team of doctors and support staff meets the needs of each dog, cat, small mammal, or reptile that comes to our clinic. If you’ve recently adopted a pet, entrust Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro to provide excellent care for your newest family member. Contact us at 330-626-4935 to schedule your pet’s first visit.
