Puppy Health Checks: Vet Visits in Their First Year

When you make the decision to bring a puppy into your life, you’re making a commitment to them that you’ll provide them with everything they need to thrive. One element of this is taking them to the vet, and it’s not always because something is wrong. In fact, in the first year of their life your pup will need to visit the vet on a number of occasions. After that, many of these visits will be preventative and stop your pooch from getting ill in the first place. Here are some of the vet visits you can expect to make in the first year.

Registration and first visit

When you first get your puppy it’s important to take them to the vet. Here you can get them registered, and they will receive a general health check. The vet will check for signs of fleas and worms, take their weight, heart rate and give them a general look over to see if everything is in order. They can recommend the best puppy food for their size and breed, as well as general care tips.  From here, you can discuss when they will be coming in for vaccinations and their microchip, if this wasn’t done by the breeder.

Microchipping and vaccinations

These may be done on the first visit to the vet, but in some cases a separate visit will be arranged to get your pup’s vaccinations. The first course should be given at eight weeks, and then a second visit will be scheduled for four weeks later for the second set. Your puppy is not immune from dangerous canine diseases until after both sets of vaccinations have been given, and the time afterwards (recommended by your vet) has elapsed. For this reason, you should carry your puppy in your arms and not let them on the floor outside until this time.  If it’s a legal requirement to have your pup microchipped, make sure the details are correct when you’re registering them. If you move or change your phone number later on then be sure to update this information.

Neutering surgery

It’s a good idea to have your dog neutered once they’re old enough. This can completely eliminate certain cancers, as well as prevent or decrease some behavioural issues. It’s not a quick fix for all behavioural problems, but it can prevent roaming (to look for a mate), scent marking and of course, unwanted litters. There’s some debate as to the best time to have a dog neutered, do some research and speak to your vet to determine when you’re happy to have it done based on the pros and cons.

Booster vaccinations

A year after their first vaccinations have been done, they will need booster shots (and every year afterwards). This ‘tops up’ their immunity to canine diseases. If you plan on going on vacation and using a boarding facility, you will need to have an up to date vaccination certificate.  Boosters are a single set of injections which are done in one vet visit. If you leave it too long, they will have to start a full course again- meaning they’ll need two vet visits and two sets of shots with four weeks in between. Something to be aware of if you have a vacation booked!