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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!

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.

Call To Schedule (616) 399-2540

"A few weeks ago was our first visit to this veterinarian's office. We were looking for an office that accepted reptiles and other small animals, as our regular vet in our town does not. We were very fortunate to learn that not only does this office accept reptiles, but they will also accept other small animals. And their fees are not CRAZY for seeing them either. A big sigh of relief for these pet parents! We always want the best for our babies, and having access to health services for the critters that are less worried about by most of society is amazing!Our first visit was with Dr Carlson, for our bearded dragon Johnathan. The office staff, vet tech, and Dr Carlson were all extremely friendly and welcoming for our first visit. They explained the process and quickly brought us to the room. The office and room was clean, spacious, and didn't have any strange odors or smells- which you can sometimes experience in places where they see pets.Dr Carlson was caring, efficient, and empathetic towards the situation that made us bring our bearded dragon in for a checkup. She quickly followed up with the stool sample test results, and provided advice and care for the results we were provided. We have been highly satisfied from start to finish with this office so far. We are hoping things start looking up for our bearded dragon, and are feeling hopeful thanks to the high efforts of this office.We look forward to bringing our other pets here, and feel peace knowing there is somewhere to bring them that cares and also won't break the bank."

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(616) 399-2540 Call To Schedule
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