Congratulations! You’re adding a pet to your family! In all of the excitement, don’t forget to schedule a vet visit for your new family member. It is important to take your new pet in as soon as possible for a checkup to make sure it is healthy and happy. Vet checkup costs can vary, so ask the receptionist how much the bill will be. Even better, purchase pet insurance and add on a wellness plan to help cover your vet bills.
Preparing for the new adventure of going to the vet for the first time can help to reduce anxiety for both you and your new pet. Follow these simple steps to make visiting the vet a pleasant experience for everyone involved. Starting on the right foot will help future visits be stress-free, and they will help you avoid some future vet checkup costs.
1) Ask for Recommendations
When looking for a vet, start by asking pet owners you trust for recommendations. Ask them why they like their vet and how their pets respond to going to the vet. Also, ask about the vet checkup costs so you can compare prices.
2) Take a Tour
Before you take your pet to the vet, take a tour for yourself. Observe how their waiting room runs, how friendly the staff acts with both the animals and the owners. Take this opportunity to ask any questions you might have about the vet, support staff, or what to do if your pet needs emergency care. Ask for an overview of vet checkup costs.
3) Help Your Pet Get Used to Your Vehicle
Before the first official appointment, take your pet on a few fun vehicle rides. Your destination on these practice trips should be pleasant experiences for your pet, but the actual car ride should mimic what it will be like on the day of the vet appointment. Don’t let the vet checkup cost more in stress than it needs to.
4) Take a Practice Trip to the Vet Clinic
Introduce your pet to the clinic beforehand. Take your pet into the waiting room and chat with the receptionist while your pet has a chance to get used to the new environment. Keep your pet close to you and on a leash, though. Make sure you know what the vet checkup cost will be.
5) Be Calm
Your stress can cause your pet stress. On the day of the first appointment, try to stay as calm as possible. The vet should be a friend to you and your pet. Make sure you have budgeted for the vet checkup cost or purchased pet insurance with a wellness add-on, so the bill doesn’t add to your stress level. Speak calmly to your pet, and stay close. You will be the reassurance that your pet needs to have a successful first experience.
Something to Remember
Enjoy getting to know your new family member! Remember, your vet is there to take care of your pet and ease your mind. A little planning and practice will make sure your pet’s first visit to the vet is an enjoyable one. Looking into pet insurance and pet wellness plans can help ease the strain of vet checkup costs on your wallet.
