Regular visits to your veterinarian should begin soon after weaning or as soon as you acquire your puppy.
Puppies should be vaccinated against canine diseases and checked periodically for worms and other parasites. Your puppy should also have an annual medical examination. When you take your puppy for his first exam, bring your veterinarian as much information as possible, including your puppy's birth date and any previous vaccination records. During the exam, the veterinarian will listen to your puppy's chest for heart and breath sounds; feel his abdomen; check the coat condition; and inspect the eyes, ears and mouth. (A collie's eyes should be looked at by a certified optimologist for Collie Eye Anomally (CEA). Only an Optimologist can properly diagnose this problem in collies, NOT a veterinarian.)
During this initial exam, ask your veterinarian about the benefits of implanting a microchip in your puppy. This simple and semi-painless procedure could prove very helpful if your puppy were lost or stolen. In fact, an implanted microchip can assist animal shelter employees in the identification and safe return of your pet. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about veterinary pet insurance. This service is becoming more and more affordable and is designed to help you pay for routine care and vaccinations as well as life-saving catastrophic care for your dog.
