Your First Visit to VCA in Newark, DE | VCA Kirkwood Animal Hospital

We are committed to caring for your pet – while maintaining the highest level of safety for our Associates and pet owners. We thank you for your continued patience and support. Learn more about our COVID-19 response and guidelines.

Before Your First Visit

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

For your convenience, download the VCA New Client Form below to complete and bring with you to the hospital.

Please also gather any medical, vaccine and adoption records you may have for your pet.

Download Form

Getting Your Pet to the Vet

A new environment can be stressful for any pet, regardless of age. Please keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier while visiting the hospital.
If you need a cat carrier, we'll bring one to your car.
If your pet is shy or feels stressed around other pets, please let us know so that we can help.

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Safety Procedures

We understand that veterinary care is an essential part of our community, and we want to reassure you that our hospitals are open and will continue to provide required medical services amid the COVID-19 situation.

Everyone’s safety remains a top priority. You may visit our hospital as needed unless you are sick or medically quarantined. Each VCA hospital has health and safety protocols in place based on health care best practices as well as state and local guidance and regulations. These may include, but are not limited to, curbside check-in, health screenings, temperature checks and social distancing measures.

Note, all persons entering our hospitals must wear face covering.

Please call us before your visit so we can discuss the necessary safety protocols.

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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

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 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.