Questions
What to Bring First Vet Visit Puppy: A Complete Checklist
Bring your puppy's adoption or purchase contract, any vaccination records, a stool sample, a leash and collar, treats, and a list of questions for the vet. Also bring a carrier or have someone hold your puppy securely.
Essential Documents for Your Puppy's First Vet Visit
Before you head to our Forest Hills clinic, gather the paperwork that helps us understand your puppy's history. Here's what to bring:
- Adoption or purchase contract – This shows your puppy's origin and any health guarantees.
- Vaccination records – If your puppy has had any shots, bring the certificate or a note from the breeder or shelter.
- Deworming records – Note any deworming treatments and dates.
- Stool sample – A fresh sample (less than 12 hours old) helps us check for parasites.
- List of current medications – Include any preventives or supplements.
- Questions for the vet – Write them down so you don't forget.
Packing a Puppy First Vet Visit Kit
Pack a small bag with comfort items to keep your puppy calm and make the visit smoother. Here's what to include:
- Leash and collar – Use a properly fitted collar and a lightweight leash. Avoid retractable leashes in the clinic.
- Treats – Bring high-value treats to reward calm behavior and create positive associations.
- Familiar blanket or toy – A piece of home reduces anxiety.
- Pee pads or paper towels – Accidents happen; be prepared.
- Carrier or secure harness – For small puppies, a carrier is safest. For larger ones, a harness and seatbelt restraint.
- Water and a bowl – Keep your puppy hydrated, especially on warm days.
Questions to Ask at Your Puppy's First Vet Visit
A good fit if…
- You want to know which vaccines your puppy needs and when.
- You're unsure about the best diet or feeding schedule.
- You need advice on house training, socialization, or basic obedience.
- You want to discuss parasite prevention and microchipping.
Consider another option if…
- You already have a detailed plan from a breeder or shelter.
- You're only there for a quick check and don't need a full consultation.
Come with a list of questions. Our team at Austin Veterinary Care in Forest Hills is happy to address all your concerns. We also offer a free first exam for new clients, so you can use that time to gather all the information you need.
Preparing Your Puppy for the First Vet Trip
Help your puppy stay calm during the car ride and clinic visit with these steps:
- Take a short practice ride – Get your puppy used to the car with a few short trips.
- Use a carrier or harness – Secure your puppy in a carrier or with a seatbelt harness.
- Keep the car quiet – Play soft music and avoid sudden stops.
- Arrive a few minutes early – This gives your puppy time to sniff around the parking lot.
- Stay calm yourself – Puppies pick up on your emotions.
Directions to our vet in Forest Hills from Long Island Jewish Forest Hills
Start at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills and head to Austin Veterinary Care at 68-60 Austin St Store #8, Forest Hills, NY 11375.
Puppy Vaccination Schedule After the First Visit
Your puppy will need several rounds of vaccines in the first year. Here's a typical schedule, but your vet will tailor it to your puppy's needs.
| Age | Vaccines | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | Distemper, parvovirus | First round |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus) | Booster |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP, rabies | Rabies is required by law |
| 12–16 months | DHPP, rabies | Booster |
| Every 1–3 years | DHPP, rabies | Based on vaccine type and local laws |
Your vet may also recommend non-core vaccines like Bordetella (kennel cough) or Lyme, depending on your puppy's lifestyle.
For details on services and visits, see the main page about vet forest hills.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring a stool sample to the first vet visit?
Yes, a fresh stool sample (less than 12 hours old) is recommended to check for intestinal parasites. If you can't get one, your vet can collect a sample during the visit.
What if I don't have any vaccination records?
That's okay. Your vet will start a vaccination schedule based on your puppy's age. Bring whatever you have, even a note from the breeder or shelter.
Can I bring my puppy to the vet before 8 weeks?
Most vets recommend the first visit at 6–8 weeks, but you can bring your puppy earlier if you have concerns. Your vet will guide you.
How long does the first vet visit take?
The first visit typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the exam and any vaccines or tests needed.
Also asked as
- What do I need for my puppy's first vet appointment?
- What should I bring to the vet for a new puppy?
- Puppy first vet visit checklist