1. Home
  2. Patient Resources

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.

Book Appointment (843) 663-4500

"I called Waterway when my own local vet could not see our ill furbaby, Annie, for a week. I called waterway and the receptionist explained my situation and Dr. Kathy took her at 1:00pm that same day. We were shocked. She was so caring and did everything she could do to make Annie comfortable, based on her bloodwork and tests. After a week of hydration, antibiotics, steroids, nausea and pain medications, she got worse and didn't eat or drink for days. Dr. Kathy was so wonderful. Even though we had to make the impossible humane choice of letting Annie go a week later, I can't think of a better place to have to do it than Waterway with Dr. Kathy and Taylor. They were incredibly sensitive and Dr, Kathy even cried with us. She didn't know us from anyone off the street, yet her compassion was as if we were lifetime patients. The whole staff signed a card for us and expressed how sorry they all were for our sudden loss. Annie was dead by the time our own vet even wanted to schedule her sick appointment. I don't think there is any more to say than that.Thank you to Dr. Kathy, Taylor and all waterway staff who cared about us and tried to help our Annie.Kelley and Bob Rains"

Kelley R.

(843) 663-4500 Appointments
Arrow up icon Top