Whether you and your pooch have been together for years or you’ve just found each other, selecting a vet is likely going to be a big concern as you move to Chicago. Since Chicago rates as one of America’s top cities for being pet friendly, you’re likely to find some excellent pet vet choices are available here, too. As you look at different Chicago rentals, you might even want to keep this in mind.
To find a great pet vet in Chicago, ask around at pet stores, look on the Internet and even check with neighbors, friends or family in the area. Once you have selected a vet, you’re going to need to set your first appointment. Exactly what to expect during the first visit can vary from vet to vet, but some general rules of thumb are likely to apply.
What should you do to prepare for your first visit to the vet?
Bring medical records, including vaccination history, and health care instructions that came with the puppy, all medicines the puppy is currently taking, a fresh stool sample for analysis by the vet, list of ingredients found in puppy’s food, information on where and how your puppy was born and raised, a list of questions to ask your veterinarian.
During your first visit, these issues are likely to come up:
Payment options – If you have pet insurance, you’ll want to select a vet that takes it. Otherwise, you’ll want to find out about payment options, payment plans and other means for meeting bills. Medical care for healthy pets can add a minimal burden to a budget, but if pets get sick, this can become a huge issue.
Your pet’s history – If you have had your dog a while, you’ll likely want to bring notes about his or her medical history with you to the first appointment. If you have special concerns, don’t forget to ask a vet in the new office about them. For example, some pet owners have dogs with unique needs. During your very first appointment, make sure the vet can address the concerns. If he or she can’t, consider finding a different vet.
Your vet’s policies – At the very first visit, you’re going to want to find out what your vet’s policies are on after-hours and emergency care. If he or she isn’t able to accommodate emergencies, you need to know this right away. Chances are your vet will work with an after-hours clinic that can help a sick pet in a crisis. You need to have the address and location. While emergencies with pets are not necessarily common, it is nice to know in advance what to do if one arises.
Availability and pricing of pet supplies – It is worth checking into what a vet offers in-house in regard to special care items. Sometimes they are cheaper in pricing than pet supply stores and sometimes they are not.
Your puppy’s 1st physical exam…
During the physical exam, your vet will assess the overall health of the puppy and just so you know what to expect, here are the basics…
- The vet will check you puppy’s eyes, ears and teeth for any abnormalities, infections, or parasites.
- The tech or the doctor will also weigh your puppy and check his/her temperature— 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit is normal.
- The pulse and breathing rate will also be checked for heart and lung irregularities.
- The genitals will be checked to make sure there is no sign of discharge or improper development.
- Your puppy’s abdomen will probable be probed and pressed to ensure there is no pain or enlarged organs.
- Joints and knee caps will be checked out to make sure movement and mobility are normal and healthy.
- The vet will usually ask for a stool sample to be brought in for analysis.
Selecting the right pet vet for a beloved dog can be as important as finding the right Chicago rentals. Take the time to ask questions during the first appointment with a new vet. If you are not comfortable with a practice or vet, keep looking.
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