Page 330 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

330 C ARE AND TR AINING

HEALTH

It is your responsibility to keep your dog as fit and
healthy as possible throughout his life. You should learn the
basic facts about health care and how to recognize when a
trip to the vet is necessary. Make sure that your puppy is
happy and relaxed at the vet’s office from an early age—this
is important preparation for stress-free visits later on. If your puppy scratches,
check him for fleas

Meeting the vet fearful of vets. If your puppy’s first few visits to the vet’s
Even before you bring a new puppy home, you should check in office are largely pleasant experiences, full of treats and
with a local veterinary office. Visit several offices to ask cuddles, he is less likely to object to the occasional injection
questions and make comparisons, and ask other dog owners, and won’t become stressed when later visits are necessary.
who are likely to be a good source of recommendations. Once The vet may allow you to make a social visit with your puppy
you have your new puppy, it is advisable to take him to the vet even if you don’t have an appointment. Ask a nurse
as soon as possible for a full health check and vaccinations. or receptionist to give your puppy some treats so that
This is also a good opportunity he makes a positive association with both the building
to seek advice on such and the people in it.
matters as feeding and On your first official visit to the vet, arrive
local puppy classes. early, having given your puppy the
Although veterinary chance to relieve himself before leaving
offices are strange home. When you enter the office, be
places full of unusual aware of other animals, and do not
smells and noises, assume that all dogs will be pleased to
puppies are not born see a puppy. However, there will be

EARLY ENCOUNTER
Your puppy’s first visit to the vet is as
much about socialization as it is about
getting a health check. Try to ensure
that it is a pleasant experience.

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