1. Home
  2. Patient Resources

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!

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 (847) 270-0880

"I have never had a bad experience here with any of the staff. They are very gentle with my 6 year old recue who has some trauma from his previous life. They don't push him to do anything that makes him uncomfortable. They don't believe in doing anything that will make him fear them, and it shows, because every time we go there, he is SO HAPPY to see all of them! It's really sweet actually. Haha. Dr. Shannon is our favorite! She also informs me that whenever he acts aggressively, it isn't because he is misbehaving, but because he wasn't happy that he had a muzzle on or that he wasn't comfortable with his nails being cut. She lets me know this because she knows that my dog has aggression issues but it isn't related to humans. Thank you guys so much. If I were to ever move, I would miss you all so much! I think my dog would too!"

Dagmar A.

(847) 270-0880 Appointments
Arrow up icon Top