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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.

Book Appointment Phone icon (703) 344-7589

  • My first visit at Livewell in Reston went as well as I had hoped! The staff from the front desk to the tech and vet was excellent. You can tell they care for animals as they took their time with my nervous pup to make sure she felt comfortable. The vet was clear explaining everything that she was doing during the exam and gave recommendations on how to move forward with how to ensure the best health for my dogs. I look forward to working with them with my pup and any future pets I may have!

    Anne C

    Reston, VA

  • Dr. Lockhart is amazing! I adopted a dog recently and she and the other staff have been so helpful with both health and behavioral/training/transition advice. My dog is actually excited when she goes to the vet.

    Charlotte M.

    Reston, VA

  • Just moved to the Reston area and brought our 1.5 year dog for a visit, and this office, staff and vet are all awesome! Took great care of our sweet pup. So glad to have them in the neighborhood, highly recommend.

    Patrick S.

    Reston, VA

  • Brought our mature pug here for emergency care. Very pleased with the care and attention from front desk, Madoka, and veterinarian, Dr. Lockhart. They got her into treatment faster than and ER vet and we didn’t have to spend 6 hours in a waiting room!! 10/10 Would highly recommend for a family vet and any other veterinary treatment.

    Monsoon S.

    Reston, VA

  • Dr Lockhart and the entire staff were so wonderful and gentle with our 8 week old puppy. She listened to all my questions and concerns and answered very thoroughly. When it came time to get her vaccines, our pup was completely unaware and thought it was playtime. Definitely recommend bringing your pets here!

    Molly C

    Reston, VA
(703) 344-7589 Appointments
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