Your First Visit
Preparing for Your First Veterinary Visit

Your first visit will allow us to get to know each other, check your pet's health, and begin wellness care to help prevent against future illnesses.

Before Your First Visit

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Gather Medical Records

Bring any medical, vaccine or adoption records you may have for your pet.
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Complete Our New Client Form

Download and complete this form to bring with you to your visit.
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Get Tips for a Successful Trip

New environments can be stressful for any pet, we've got some tips for you.
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During Your First Visit

During your pet’s first visit, your veterinarian will do a head-to-tail exam and check overall health, including the skin and coat, eyes and ears, teeth and gums, heart, lungs and other vital organs.

The veterinarian will also check your pet for fleas, ticks and other external parasites.

Your veterinarian will also ask questions about your pet’s diet, habits and activities, and discuss overall health and wellness including:

  • Vaccine History
  • Parasite Prevention
  • Spaying/Neutering
  • Dental Care
  • Microchipping
Ask Questions
Your first visit is an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your pet's breed. Symptoms of many hereditary conditions are not always obvious, so awareness is important for early detection.

This is also a great time to ask for any recommendations or tips about care, training and feeding. Don't forget to schedule your pet's follow-up visit before you leave. After all, preventive care can help your pet live a longer and healthier life.

If you have any questions at all about your pet's upcoming visit, don't hesitate to contact us. We're looking forward to seeing you and your pet soon.
Helpful Links

Education New Client Form
Friends Tips for Visiting Your Veterinarian
VCA Kirkwood Animal Hospital
Animals We See Cats, Dogs, Pot-Bellied Pigs, Rabbits
  • Contact
    Phone Icon 302-737-1098
    Fax Icon 302-737-3367
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  • Location
    1501 Capitol Trail
    Newark, DE 19711
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  • Hours & Info
    Mon - Thu: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Fri: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sat: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
    Sun: Closed

    When your pet is scheduled for boarding, please allow extra time to discuss and answer any questions the staff may have in regards to your pet's needs. The boarding and grooming desk is open:

    Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 9:00 am & 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
    Saturday: 7:30 am - 9:00am & 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
    Sunday: 9:00 am - 10:00 am & 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

    For alternative times, you may drop-off or pick-up any time at the hospital desk during business hours.

    When dropping your pet off for procedures, please allow extra time to meet with our "Patient Outreach Coordinator" to discuss and make decisions about your pet's care for the day.