You've chosen your puppy, now it's time to choose his vet
One of the first things you'll need to do once you bring your puppy home is make a vet's appointment. But how do you find a vet who's right for you? Recommendations from family and friends can be helpful but, in the absence of those, you'll need to trust your instincts. Do the staff seem friendly, knowledgeable and helpful? Is the surgery convenient for you to get to and does it have good provision if your puppy happens to be unwell outside of surgery hours? You should also find out whether the surgery specialises in certain areas, or if your vet will be able to refer your pet to a specialist if needed.
Ensuring the first visit goes smoothly
Your first visit to the vet is likely to be quite stressful for your puppy. He'll have to travel in the car, come across new people and new smells and put up with a certain amount of poking and prodding.
You can help in a number of ways. The first and most important is to be calm in yourself. Next, make sure your puppy is safely restrained in the car either by using a travel crate or a puppy harness and a seatbelt. It's also a good idea to pack some toys and treats to reward your puppy for good behaviour. That way he'll see that going to the vet isn't all bad!
Tasty Tips
Vaccinations
Vaccinating your puppy against life-threatening diseases is essential and is one of the most important things you can do to keep him healthy.
Your vet will provide you with an exact schedule of vaccination but expect your puppy to receive his first vaccinations at around eight weeks and his next at 12 weeks of age. He'll need to be kept inside and away from other dogs until 7-10 days after that.
To maintain protection, annual booster shots must be given from then on, though some are only required every other year. Your vet will advise you on this.
Worming
There are two types of worms that will infect your puppy: roundworms and tapeworms, so you'll need to start treating him as soon as possible. Your vet will advise you on a regular worming programme. Because some worms can also infect people, it is important that you stick to the worming regime recommended by your vet.
Fleas
If your puppy's harbouring unwanted visitors, he'll probably scratch a lot. You may also notice flea dirt in his coat when you're grooming him. You're unlikely to see the actual fleas though which are red-brown, about 2-3mm long and move very fast.
If you think your puppy does have fleas, seek advice on how to treat him from your vet. Modern flea preparations are very effective and you should be able to get rid of the fleas pretty quickly. You'll also need to thoroughly treat your home and your vet will provide you with a suitable spray or powder.
Pet insurance
You may decide to take out Pet Insurance for your new puppy. That way, at least you know if he does become poorly, you won't have the additional stress of worrying about big bills for treatment.
Do bear in mind though that most pet Insurance won't cover routine health care. It also important to do your homework as policies and prices vary widely. Don't sign anything until you've read the small print.
Microchipping
A microchip is a tiny device that can be implanted under your puppy's skin on his neck. This is a relatively pain-free procedure; it's just like receiving a vaccination injection. The chip carries a unique number which is registered on a central database. If your puppy ever goes missing, he can then be traced back to you. You will have to pay for this, but it's well worth the investment. Ask your vet for more details.
Related products
Hypoallergenic Medium Adult Dog Food
Science Plan Hypoallergenic Medium Adult dog food with Salmon is a gentle, science-led formula crafted for dogs with food sensitivities. Made with carefully selected, high-quality novel proteins and no grains, it’s tailored to minimise common triggers that can lead to skin and digestive discomfort.
Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Sensitive Stomach and Skin Small & Mini Adult Dog Food with Turkey is a complete premium pet food for small breed adult dogs aged 1–6 years. This deliciously soft mousse is enriched with ingredients that support digestive health & skin care.
Puppy & Mother Tender Mousse Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy & Mother Tender Mousse Dog Food with Chicken is a complete premium pet food for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs. Formulated with chicken and other specially selected ingredients, including minerals and antioxidants to support gut health and optimal growth, it comes in a soft mousse texture they'll love.
Perfect Weight Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Adult Small & Mini Dog Food with Turkey is a complete premium pet food for adult small dogs from 1 year old that are prone to weight gain or slightly overweight. This deliciously smooth mousse is formulated to deliver the appropriate amount of energy to support weight maintenance in adult dogs.
Related articles
What should I do about my overweight dog?
Dog obesity is a significant problem - learn more about helping your dog become trimmer and healthier through improved nutrition.
Kidney Disease in Dogs: Causes, Signs & Treatments
Discover the causes, signs, and treatments of kidney disease in dogs and find methods of supporting your dog's kidney health. Learn more at Hill's Pet South Africa.
Dog Bitten by a Snake? Clinical Symptoms & What You Should Do
Learn about snake bites on dogs, including clinical symptoms to look for, what to do if you think your dog was bitten, and treatment & prevention options.
Are your Dog’s Bad Habits Stomach Churning?
Puppy, kitten and pet dieting, cat nutrition and dog nutrition information from Hill's Pet
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.