What Should I Expect During My Pet's First Visit?
Prepare for your pet’s first vet visit with this guide. Learn what to expect, from health checks and vaccinations to preventive care and more.

Bringing your pet to the veterinarian for the first time can be a mix of excitement and anxiety. Whether you’ve recently adopted a new puppy, kitten, or rescue animal, or you're just transferring to a new veterinary clinic like Pawsy Clinic, it's important to know what to expect during your pet's first visit. This initial visit is a key moment in establishing a strong foundation for your pet’s health and ensuring they receive the best possible care. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect during your pet’s first veterinary appointment so you can be well-prepared and confident in the care your pet will receive.
Scheduling the First Visit
Before the appointment, you’ll need to call your veterinary clinic to schedule the first visit. During this call, be ready to provide some basic information about your pet, such as:
- Your pet's age, breed, and any previous medical history
- Any vaccinations or treatments your pet has had previously
- Any specific health concerns or issues you want to address
You may also be asked to bring in your pet's medical records from the breeder, shelter, or previous vet, if applicable. If your pet is a puppy or kitten, the clinic might offer you a wellness package, which includes a thorough health checkup, vaccinations, and parasite prevention.
Arrival and Check-In Process
Once you arrive at the veterinary clinic, the first step will be checking in at the front desk. You’ll be asked to provide your contact details, your pet’s information, and any relevant medical history. This is an important step because the vet will rely on this information to get a full picture of your pet’s health.
During check-in, ask any questions you may have about your pet’s care, such as the clinic's policies, costs, or specific concerns you may have. If your pet has any fears or sensitivities (like being nervous around other animals), let the staff know so they can make accommodations for a smoother visit.
Meeting the Veterinarian and Initial Health Assessment
After checking in, you and your pet will be taken to an exam room where you’ll meet the veterinarian. The vet will likely begin by introducing themselves and making sure both you and your pet are comfortable. Building a good rapport with your veterinarian is key to a successful ongoing relationship, so take the time to ask questions and discuss any concerns you might have about your pet’s health.
Here’s what you can expect during the health assessment:
Physical Examination:
- Weight Check: The vet will weigh your pet to ensure they are within a healthy range for their breed and age. Maintaining an ideal weight is important for preventing issues like joint problems or obesity.
- Vital Signs: The vet will check your pet's heart rate, respiration, temperature, and pulse. This helps assess their overall health.
- Body Condition Score: The vet will assess your pet’s body condition, evaluating things like muscle tone, coat health, and overall body fat.
Head-to-Toe Checkup:
The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam of your pet, including checking their ears, eyes, teeth, and gums for any signs of infections, issues, or abnormalities. They will also feel the abdomen, check your pet’s joints and muscles, and ensure their coat and skin are in good condition.
This examination will help identify any potential health issues and give the vet an overall picture of your pet’s well-being.
Vaccinations and Preventive Care
One of the most important aspects of your pet’s first visit is ensuring they are up-to-date on vaccinations. Vaccines are crucial in preventing serious diseases, and your vet will review which vaccines are appropriate for your pet based on their age, breed, and lifestyle.
For puppies and kittens, this may include vaccines for diseases like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and feline leukemia, depending on your pet’s species. The vet will also discuss other preventive care treatments, such as:
- Parasite Prevention: Your vet will recommend products to prevent fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites. This is especially important for pets that spend time outdoors.
- Heartworm Prevention: If your pet is old enough, the vet may recommend heartworm testing and preventive medication to protect your pet from these potentially life-threatening parasites.
- Spaying/Neutering: If your pet hasn’t already been spayed or neutered, the vet will discuss the benefits of this procedure, which can prevent unwanted litters and reduce the risk of certain health issues.
The vet may provide a schedule for future vaccines and preventive treatments, helping you stay on top of your pet's healthcare needs.
5. Discussing Diet, Exercise, and Behavior
During the first visit, the vet will likely discuss your pet's diet and exercise regimen. Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of your pet’s health, and your vet will help you choose the best food based on your pet’s age, breed, and health needs. They may also suggest portion sizes and feeding schedules.
In addition, the vet will discuss your pet's exercise needs. For example, an active dog breed may require more frequent or intense physical activity, while a cat may benefit from play sessions to maintain a healthy weight and mental stimulation.
Finally, if you have any concerns about your pet's behavior—whether it's house training issues, excessive barking, or scratching—now is the time to discuss them. Early behavioral problems can often be corrected with proper guidance, and your vet can offer suggestions or refer you to a professional animal behaviorist if needed.
Testing and Additional Diagnostics (If Necessary)
Depending on your pet’s age, breed, and health history, the vet may recommend additional tests during the first visit. These tests could include:
- Blood work: A blood test can help assess your pet’s overall health and check for any hidden issues, such as infections, organ problems, or anemia.
- Urinalysis: A urine test can help identify issues related to the kidneys or urinary tract.
- Fecal Exam: This is especially important for puppies and kittens to check for intestinal parasites.
These tests help provide a more complete picture of your pet’s health and may be recommended as part of a thorough wellness exam, especially for young or senior pets.
Scheduling Follow-Up Appointments
At the end of the first visit, the vet will discuss the next steps for your pet’s care. They will recommend when your pet should return for follow-up appointments or booster shots. They may also suggest a regular schedule for annual wellness exams or semi-annual visits, depending on your pet’s age and health.
If your pet requires any medications, the vet will provide instructions on how to administer them and when to follow up to monitor progress.
Preparing for Future Visits
After the visit, you may feel reassured, knowing that your pet is healthy and well-cared for. However, it’s important to continue following through with any advice from the vet and to establish a routine for regular check-ups. Keeping your pet on a healthy diet, exercise routine, and preventive care plan will help ensure their long-term well-being.
If you ever have concerns or notice any changes in your pet’s health or behavior, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet. Building a relationship with your vet from the very first visit helps ensure your pet receives the best care throughout their life.
Conclusion
Your pet’s first visit to the vet is a crucial step in ensuring they start off on the right foot when it comes to their health. From the initial check-up to vaccinations, preventive care, and behavior advice, this first appointment will help establish a solid foundation for your pet’s long-term wellness. By being prepared and knowing what to expect, you can make your pet’s first visit to the vet as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re at Pawsy Clinic or another trusted vet, your pet’s health is in good hands, and with ongoing care, they’ll be happy and healthy for many years to come.
What's Your Reaction?






