What to expect on your first visit?- A pet’s first visit to our animal hospital in Winter Springs Florida can seem a bit daunting. So our staff of veterinary experts has put together a list of information, tips, and resources to help you prepare. First off thank you for reading this blog article on this topic – “What to expect on your first visit?”. We hope you find it useful and helpful.
At your first appointment, our team of veterinary staff will gather information about your pet’s background, health, diet, and training. It is important to complete the intake forms located on our website. This will ensure an easier check-in process on your exam day. We can and will also address any questions or concerns you might have. So what are things you need to think about prior to the visit? Well, we will share that and many other questions you might be wondering about your first visit.
When Should You Schedule The First Visit?
Schedule Your Visit Early. It’s best to schedule your veterinarian visit for the morning when delays are less likely. And arrive a few minutes early so you can help get your pet settled and fill out any paperwork. Please remember, that we offer patient forms online, so you can fill out any paperwork at home, so your visit goes even more smoothly for you and your furry friend.
Your veterinarian, Dr. Alex Suero will examine your pet from nose to tail, looking for things like heart murmurs, ear infections, and/or parasites. Your vet can also provide pet-proofing tips, training assistance, and parasite protection recommendations.
What Should Do Before Your First Appointment?
Bring All the Proper Items With You
There’s a lot you can do to help your pet’s first veterinarian with Dr. Alex. He wants your visit to run smoothly and get the most out of your time there. Remember, you are doing this because no one ever expects an emergency to occur—especially in those first happy moments at home—but establishing a relationship with a local Winter Springs vet early on will give you peace of mind if you find yourself in an emergency situation.
- Complete all relevant Patient Forms prior to your first visit.
- Prepare your questions ahead of time, even if that means writing them down.
- Assemble and be sure to bring all the proper items with you:
- Your pet’s adoption or purchase records – Bring your adoption papers from the shelter. This will help your veterinarian get to know your pet’s medical history, and which vaccines they’ve already had, or still need.
- Any existing medical history
- A list of current medications and supplements – Bring a list of any medications or supplements your pet is on, how often they take them, as well as the food you’re feeding them. If it’s easier, just bring the medications with you to the office. You can then explain what each one is and why your pet needs it.
- Current feeding schedule and the brand of food you use
- Again bring a written list of questions you have for Dr. Alex Suero – he will be happy to answer them for you
- Collect any necessary stool or urine samples if requested.
If you’re bringing in your dog, be sure he or she is accustomed to being on a short leash. If you’re bringing a cat, be sure to have an appropriate carrier.
Is it okay to bring treats or leave the room during the first visit with my pet?
Yes, Bring Treats!
Is there one that your pet really loves? Bring some for your Winter Springs Florida veterinarian and their assistants to give to your pet during the appointment. It is totally okay to feel free to bring your pet’s favorite treats to keep them happy and distracted!
If Necessary, It Is Okay To Leave the Room
If you’re squeamish around needles, it’s best to leave the room. Your pet might even pick up on your anxiety and get more stressed out themselves. Did you know, animals look to their pack leader for direction in new and uncomfortable situations?
It’s true, so if you are afraid of something they will feel the same way or go into protection mode. They might see whatever it is as a threat and go try to stop the threat. That is why sometimes it is okay to sit it out if you get nervous.
In my case, my dog was fearful of getting his toenails cut. He would let me touch his feet for the first months I rescued him. So, I practiced saying tender words in a soft voice to him and very lightly petting him including his toes for just a few seconds. He slowly began to trust me that I would not harm him and that I was someone safe to be around.
Believe it or not, this transitioned to the vet clinic. I used calming words during the exam and he was able to stay calm knowing I was there for him. Keep in mind, that you want your vet clinic staff to do their jobs fully. Your veterinarian will thoroughly examine your pet, looking for things like heart murmurs, ear infections, or even worms. So no matter staying or leaving the room, the goal is to make certain your fur baby is 100% healthy.
Remember to celebrate with your pet after the visit is over. Once you’re back at home, do something fun with your pet to help them relax after their first visit.
Do You Need To Understand The Appointment Policies?
Yes! Feel free to ask the staff at the front desk what the policies are. Keep in mind, that the policies may change from time to time, so be certain to ask how they communicate that. Consider arriving 5 minutes prior to your pet’s appointment for check-in. If you have not filled out all relevant patient forms yet, plan to arrive 10 minutes ahead of your appointment.
While our animal hospital serves Winter Springs, Casselberry, and Oviedo Florida, and does our best to make sure all of our patients are seen on time, there will be times of occasional unexpected delay due to an emergency or because we are providing care for a patient that needs a little more time. Please accept our apologies in advance if this should occur, and understand that the same dedication and courtesy will be provided to your pet should they ever need it.
Thank you for reading this blog article by Tuscawilla Animal Hospital in Winter Springs Florida! – What to expect on your first visit?
The Tuscawilla Animal Hospital wrote this article to help you better understand the things you see and hear when our caring staff members are caring for your pet.
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