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.

"Myrtle Grove has the best team of expert veterinarians in Wilmington, NC!!! I took my kitty in for what I thought was just going to be a rabies shot and Dr. Peat noticed he was not breathing good. After taking an X-ray she saw that something was surrounding his heart and lungs. She was proactive and had their whole team of doctors review the X-rays. Dr Houlihan was trained on a Global Scan Test and was able to determine that it was fluid vs a mass. We came home with meds for congestive heart failure and overnight my kitty is feeling 100% better. As a Team they were able to buy him and I some more time together and make him comfortable Thank you Myrtle Grove Animal Hospital for showing me that you all really care and Dr Peat for going the extra mile making multiple calls to check on my baby and come up with a solution.I HIGHLY recommend this team of experts to anyone!!!!"

Shari H.

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