Your Puppy or Kitten's First Visit

Published November 2025

Congratulations on your new puppy or kitten! Their first veterinary visit is an important milestone that sets the foundation for a lifetime of good health. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for this important appointment.

When to Schedule the First Visit

We recommend booking your pet's first appointment within a few days of bringing them home, ideally:

• Puppies: At 6-8 weeks of age
• Kittens: At 6-8 weeks of age
• Rescue pets: As soon as possible after adoption

Even if your breeder or rescue centre says your pet has been checked, it's important for us to establish a baseline for your pet's health.

What to Bring

• Medical records: Any vaccination or health records from the breeder or rescue
• Stool sample: Fresh (within 12 hours) for parasite testing
• Food information: Details of current diet
• List of questions: Write down any concerns beforehand
• Carrier or lead: Safe transportation for your pet
• Treats: To make the experience positive

What Happens During the First Visit

Complete Physical Examination

We'll perform a thorough nose-to-tail examination, checking:

• Eyes, ears, and nose: For any discharge or abnormalities
• Teeth and gums: Dental health and bite alignment
• Heart and lungs: Using a stethoscope to listen for abnormalities
• Abdomen: Feeling for any unusual lumps or pain
• Skin and coat: Checking for parasites, rashes, or skin conditions
• Musculoskeletal: Assessing joints, gait, and movement
• Genitals: Ensuring normal development
• Weight and body condition: Establishing a healthy baseline

Parasite Check and Prevention

• Fecal test for intestinal parasites
• Check for fleas and ticks
• Discuss appropriate parasite prevention program
• Administer first worming treatment if needed

Vaccination Discussion

• Review vaccination history
• Explain vaccination schedule
• Administer first vaccines if age-appropriate
• Schedule follow-up vaccination appointments

Topics We'll Discuss

Nutrition

• Appropriate food for your pet's age and size
• How much and how often to feed
• Treats and human foods to avoid
• When to transition from puppy/kitten food

Training and Behaviour

• House training tips
• Socialization recommendations
• Crate training guidance
• Preventing problem behaviours

Dental Care

• Starting tooth brushing early
• Dental products for puppies and kittens
• What to expect as adult teeth come in

Neutering

• Benefits of neutering
• Optimal timing for your pet
• What the procedure involves

Microchipping

• Legal requirement in Ireland
• How microchipping works
• Can often be done during first visit

Making the Visit Positive

Help your pet develop positive associations with the vet:

• Before the visit: Handle paws, ears, and mouth at home
• Travel: Make car journeys comfortable and stress-free
• At the clinic: Stay calm - your pet picks up on your emotions
• Rewards: Bring favorite treats to reward cooperation
• Play: Let them explore the exam room (if safe to do so)

Questions to Ask

Don't hesitate to ask about:

• When is my pet fully vaccinated?
• What signs of illness should I watch for?
• How often should I bring them for check-ups?
• What's normal behaviour for this age?
• How do I know if my pet is a healthy weight?
• What pet insurance do you recommend?
• When should I book neutering?

Follow-up Care

After the first visit, we'll schedule:

• Second and third vaccinations (2-4 weeks apart)
• Follow-up parasite treatments
• Neutering appointment when age-appropriate
• Regular annual health checks