first vet visit

[charlie horse]

OK so I'm probably going to go ahead and get a puppy.
What about the first vet visit? is there anything special I should do to make sure he (or she) doesn't develop some sort of lifelong phobia about the vet?
And what age should he be when he gets his first shots? How many shots does he need? Are they expensive?
Is there anything I should ask the vet on his first visit?
I realise how completely clueless I sound, and yes I probably am, but hey that's what forums are for right?

[BrianP]

One thing you should do when you take your dog to the vet is reward him afterwards by giving him a treat and perhaps taking him on a run or something before you go home.

That way he'll associate going to the vet as a positive experience.

[kuritsa18]

I don't think your dog will develope a lifelong phobia I know my dog gets really excited when we go because of all the differnent smells and people and animals; it can be quite fun for them. But if your puppy does seem shy or scared make sure to give it lots of praise for going and being brave and i agree to give it treats.

you should take your dog before it's a month old to get its first shots but if you are not sure call your local vet and ask. They will be more than happy tell you and give you advice plus tell you the cost. Then when you go for your first visit you can ask about the different shots and when they need to get them and how often should you come for a check up they will ususally book your next appointment for you before you leave. I think its the first six months for shots, every few months, and then once a year for a check up so not too bad. The shots are not expensive and remember you only have to get them once It's the begginning that's expensive because you have to get everything and then when they are older all you have to buy is food and toys and some other odds and ends. The most expensve is spaying and neutering but, again, you only have to do it once. The vets are usually very helpful and give lots of advice especially if its you first dog. You also can get numbers from them for recommended training groups for training and obedience classes. They are experts and can answer all your questions or concerns