1st vet appointment . . tips?

[Amber D]

We are bringing our 8 week old goldendoodle puppy home on Friday. Should I schedule a vet checkup for the following week? Or will this depend on the vet's preferences? Also, I've gotten a couple of recommendations from co-workers for several different vets in our area. Any tips on choosing a good vet?

[Joe R.]

First off congratulations on the new puppy. I'm guessing this is your first vet. I would ask around like you did. Maybe see if the different vets will allow you to visit first to see their facilities. Almost like an interview.

[Oliver]

congrats on the new puppy! I suggest finding a vet that is AHAA certified. also, breeders often have a time frame within which you have to have a vet check the puppy over (i.e. if they find something severely wrong you can get your money back, the contract is void, etc. not that i'm saying this will happen- but when you pick your puppy up, your breeder might say you have to take your puppy to a vet within 10 days, like ours does)

[AndySharon BoomerShaynaMariner]

I would suggest that you have your new puppy's checkup be done as soon as you can. You want to make sure that there are no medical problems.

As for choosing a vet, ask around. Also find out if there is an emergency when the vet is closed - where do you go?

Congratulations on your new addition.

[Joannie]

We booked Barney's appointment before we picked him up. He had an appointment 3 days after his pick-up. The breeder recommended it too. It's important for their health guarantee, and if there are any problems it's better to find out right away. We picked the same vet we had for our previous dog, we like them because they like dogs and don't treat them as a way to make money. I've worked for vets in the past and seen both types. Co-workers and friends are good to listen to.
Our vet is great, she doesn't love "mixes" but she was very impressed with all the health care and records our breeder gave us. She's in love with Barney now. Now she's actually recommending her to others.

[Adina P]

Some breeders require a vet visit within 3 days (check your contract) so that if there is a problem that needs immediate attention it will be addressed. This in addition to, hopefully, a 2 year health guarantee for genetic problems. SO I would go ASAP to be sure pup is healthy and figure out a vaccine schedule, check for worms, etc.

Congrats on upcoming puppy! Look forward to reports of your first day/week!

[Jackie]

I took my doodle to the vet two days after we got him. The breeder recommended it. I made the appt. before we brought him home. I asked around for recommendations on Vets. We're happy with the one we went with. Congratulations on the new puppy.

[9pavxfihcp80]

I highly recommend taking treats along with to the first vet appointment. Feed the puppy continuously during the appointment while it is on the exam table, being handled by the vet and/or their assistants, while getting vaccinated, etc. You want the pup to associate the vets' office with something good. Our doods love going to the vets and we take them occasionally just to "say hi" and check their current weight. We just want to make sure they aren't ever afraid to go there.

Good luck and enjoy your new doodle pup!