One of the first things you will need to do when you get a new puppy or dog is to register with a local vet. Most vets offer healthcare plans to help you spread the cost for veterinary treatment throughout the year. Choosing the right vet for you can be daunting, but it’s worth doing some research to make sure you pick the right practice for you and your pet.

When should puppies go to the vet?

You can make an appointment for your puppy to see the vet when you contact them to register. It’s a good idea to let your puppy settle in for a few days first. On the first visit, the vet will carry out a puppy health check. This involves examining their eyes, ears and teeth, weighing them and listening to their heart. Ask your vet what your dog’s ideal weight will be as an adult. You will need this information to make sure you feed your puppy the right amount of food.

Take with you any paperwork given to you by the breeder, previous owner or dog rehoming centre. This includes a vaccination card, your puppy contract and breed registration papers.

How often do you take a puppy to the vet?

If you have got an eight week old puppy from a breeder, they may have already had their first vaccinations. However, they will still need to have their second set of vaccinations. This will be about two weeks later. Your vet will advise you on what vaccinations your puppy needs. Your puppy will also need to be wormed and deflead. This can be done at home as directed by your vet. Thereafter, it’s an annual booster for dogs to protect them from nasty diseases. They will also need a health check. This is offered every six or 12 months, depending on your vet. Your vet will examine your dog and check their weight at these appointments. If your puppy is fit and well, the next trip to the vet will be for neutering (the removal of an animal’s reproductive organ, either all of it or a considerably large part). A female dog is ready to be spayed at around 6 months old. Male dogs are usually castrated at around 6-7 months old.

Choosing a Good Vet

Every town has a vet or a few veterinary practices. You can find details of your local vets using the RCVS Find A Vet search facility. All vets in the UK are registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). It is illegal for anyone in the UK who isn’t registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) to practise as a vet. The RCVS is the UK’s governing body for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses. When it comes to picking a vet, there are a number of factors you may want to consider. This includes specialism (dogs in this case!), location and structure. Some vets specialise in a particular species of animals, for example, small animals such as cats and dogs. Other vets specialise in farm animals or horses etc.

Vets also vary by business structure. Some vets have practices inside pet shops. Others are part of a large nationwide veterinary group. The main ones are:

CVS

Independent Vet Care

Medivet

A smaller percentage of vet practices are independent and privately-owned.

How much do vets charge?

During the first year of your puppy’s life, you will need to pay for a full course of vaccinations. This is to protect them from diseases. You will also need to have them spayed or castrated. Veterinary treatment can be expensive, particularly if they become seriously sick or are injured and need surgery or to stay overnight.

Pet insurance

It’s a good idea to get pet insurance for dogs. This can cover any unexpected costs in the event of your dog being seriously ill or injured. Shop around to compare pet insurance for your dog and check the small print for what’s covered and what’s not.

Dog health care plans

Most vets offer dog and puppy health care plans. These cover annual vaccinations, and a year’s worth of prescription flea and worm treatment. They also include health checks every six to 12 months. You pay a monthly subscription for this annual plan.

Always do your research

Referrals are one way to find a good vet. Referrals from friends and acquaintances are the best way to find a vet. Ask specific questions to those giving referrals such as

How long has your pet been seeing this vet?

What were the health problems and how were they treated?

What were the costs?

Hope this helps and good luck!