Getting a new friend is always an exciting time for you and your household. Newly acquired pets can end up being a fantastic long-term addition to your family. While owning a pet can be a worthwhile adventure, these friends can take a lot of work if you want to be considered a "responsible owner." Part of being an accountable pet owner is taking your animal to the local veterinarian when they are sick or need shots. However, many first-time pet owners make a crucial mistake when they first adopt their companion.

Why You Should Take New Pets to the Vet

When a baby is born, doctors and nurses run tests to make sure he or she is healthy before they discharge the child from the hospital. They are new to this world, and these assessments make sure they are ready for all it has to offer. The same should be done for new pets. Regardless of where they came from, you as the new owner has never worked with or seen this pet before. For this reason, you need to take this friend in for a routine checkup to make sure that they are ready for your home and family.

Why Should Pets Be Checked?

There are many medical concerns that new pets can pose to themselves and others. New owners do not have the "eye" to recognize if their new pet is acting differently than they ought to be. A puppy sleeping for 22 hours a day may seem normal to an owner who has never owned a puppy before, but this may be a symptom of a medical issue. This is why pet owners should always take their new friend to the vet. Every dog is different, and only a veterinarian can determine if a dog's behavior is typical. Additionally, new pets can have numerous issues that need to be taken care of through trained medical care.

Some common issues that new pets may have:

• Fleas, ticks, and infestations
• Dietary problems
• Growth deficiencies
• Need of shots

Unfortunately, the more exotic your new pet is, the more likely they need medical attention.

Finding a local veterinarian can be an intimidating venture, but once you find the right person for the job, he or she may become your lifeline when your pet needs immediate medical care. Taking your new pet to a veterinarian allows you to scope out your medical options in case of emergencies. Knowing a good veterinarian can make the difference between a lifetime relationship or one that ends too soon.