Five Reasons Your New Puppy Should Visit the Vet

There are many people who seem to think that if you got a puppy from a shelter, or a top of the line breeder no vet check is necessary. Well regardless of where you got your puppy from, it is still possible for them to not be healthy. Of course your puppy may have received a clean bill of health, but finding your own vet to check them out is always a good idea. Below are five reasons why you should always take a new puppy to the vet's office within a day or two of bringing them home.

1. Worm check

A lot of people may not realize that it is perfectly normal for your puppy to have worms. This is something that I was actually not aware of. In fact according to my veterinarian most do. Even though the person you may have gotten the puppy from may have treated them, it is possible that they were not completely worm free. In some cases puppies need more than one treatment to make sure they are worm free. So for your first visit to the vet be sure to take along a stool sample. This way they can make sure that your puppy is worm free.

2. Socialize them with the vet

I also have found it to be a good idea to allow them to get to know the veterinarian. Kind of like allowing your young children to get used to going to the doctor. Now, I am in no way trying to humanize a dog, but you do want them to be properly socialized with the individuals who will be checking their health.

3. Congenital abnormalities

It is possible that something was missed during your puppy's initial exam. This can even happen if you get your puppy from a breeder or shelter. The vet will be sure to look your puppy over thoroughly to make sure they don't see any initial problems.

4. Puppy training tips

The vet is a good place to start when you need tips and advice on training your puppy. They can tell you what to start with, and when you should start. I have found the vet to be one of the best places to get tips on puppy training. They also may be able to give you advice based on your puppies breed. 

5. Get a detailed vaccine schedule

You also may not be sure when to take your puppy in to get their next set of vaccinations. You can also get details on what vaccinations your puppy needs and why. If you got your puppy from a breeder they may have given you some information but may not have gone into much detail.