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Your Pet's First Visit

A pet's first visit to the vet can seem a bit daunting, so we've put together a list of info and resources to help you prepare. 

At your first appointment, we will gather information about your pet’s background, health, diet, and training. We can also address any questions or concerns you might have.

Your veterinarian will examine your pet from nose-to-tail, looking for things like heart murmurs, ear infections, and/or parasites. Your vet can also provide pet-proofing tips, training assistance, and parasite protection recommendations. 

Before Your First Appointment
  1. Complete the New Client Form prior to your first visit.
  2. Assemble and be sure to bring all the proper items with you:
    • Your pet's adoption or purchase records
    • Any existing medical history
    • A list of current medications and supplements
    • Current feeding schedule and the brand of food you use
    • A list of questions you have for your veterinarian
  3. Collect any necessary stool or urine samples, if requested.
  4. If you're bringing in your dog, be sure he or she is accustomed to being on a short leash. If you're bringing a cat, be sure to have an appropriate carrier.
  5. Feel free to bring your pet's favorite treats to keep them happy and distracted!

What to Expect

Because even the most cooperative pet may not readily go-along with a tooth and gum brushing, an annual cleaning by your veterinarian may be in order. Like you, your pet can lose his teeth due to decay and neglect. It's a good idea to keep an accurate medical diary not only of the procedures and vaccinations your pet receives at the vet but also of notes on things like your pet's elimination habits and any physical changes or unusual occurrences. Keep track of small shifts in your pet's behavior, including urinary marking habits and mood swings, along with diet and routine modifications. Take this notebook when you visit the vet. These seemingly unrelated occurrences may help explain the results of your pet's medical tests. Also, if you need to change vets, it's good to have this journal to provide a complete medical history.

Our veterinarians may refer you to specialists, who have completed advanced studies in specialties such as internal medicine, surgery, and emergency care if your pet must undergo a procedure that requires more precise knowledge and experience.

Appointment Policies

​Please arrive 5 minutes prior to your pet's appointment for check-in. If you have not filled out all relevant patient forms yet, plan to arrive 10 minutes ahead of your appointment.

While we do our best to make sure all of our patients are seen on time, there will be times of occasional unexpected delay due to an emergency or because we are providing care for a patient that needs a little more time. Please accept our apologies should this occur, and understand that the same dedication and courtesy will be provided to your pet should they ever need it.

Book Appointment (940) 365-9430

"Hooves and Paws is the best veterinarian clinic we have ever taken our animals to. We got a new puppy on New Year’s Day, when we took her in to make sure she was in good health the technicians were already too close, but they checked her out even though they didn’t have to. Thank you Hooves and Paws."

Christy K.

Appointments Food & Meds
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