Puppy social visits to the veterinarian

Despite a veterinarian’s love of animals, they’re not usually the dog’s favorite person. We know the veterinarian is doing it for the good of your pup, but unfortunately, your best friend may not understand this. 

So, what’s the solution? Well, it’s multifaceted. 

Our hospitals are set up in a way that reduces fear of veterinary visits for your dog. The veterinary team uses gentle handling techniques and provides delicious rewards along the way. 

What is a social veterinarian visit?

You can positively affect your pup’s perception of the veterinary hospital by taking your new friend to the veterinarian for a social visit. This all sounds like a ploy for your VCA care team to play with a puppy. While that’s certainly a benefit, we’re more concerned with your new pup’s socialization and building a positive association with the veterinarian, veterinary team and hospital environment. 

Your pup is close to entering a period where fear may outweigh sociability. If their only experience with the veterinarian during this time is a physical exam followed by restraint and vaccination, they may not feel too excited the next time they enter our hospital. During a social visit, we can offer delicious treats, lots of scritches and pets, and show your new friend that scrubs and stethoscopes don’t always mean needles and medications.

How often should my puppy visit the veterinarian?

Your puppy will be seeing the veterinarian 3 to 4 times over the course of early puppyhood for exams and boosters. Consider breaking up these medical visits with at least one or two social visits at the veterinary clinic. 

Call ahead to let your VCA care team know you’d like to stop by with your new pup for a social visit. Not only will you brighten the team’s day, but you’ll give them the chance to let you know when a good time to come by would be. They’ll also be able to warn you of any safety concerns before you enter, such as a recent infectious case in the lobby.

Not convinced? Speak with your VCA care team about how social calls with the veterinarian now lead to happier veterinary visits in the future.