How should you prepare your pet for a visit or test?

Ask whether the requested tests require fasting; some routine panels may require approximately 6–12 hours without food.

Water can usually remain available unless the clinic gives different instructions.

Do not stop medication or change its timing on your own. Record the name, dose and time of the last dose.

Bring previous results. Avoid intense exercise and try to minimise stress before the appointment.

Adult dogs and cats are often asked to fast for 8–12 hours; confirm the exact period when booking.

Water is usually allowed. Do not restrict it unless specifically instructed.

If the bladder or urinary tract is being examined, try to prevent urination immediately before the visit.

A small area of the abdomen may need to be clipped for a clear image.

Confirm whether urine should be collected at home or sterilely at the clinic under ultrasound guidance.

Collect a home sample in a clean, sealed container and avoid transferring it from a contaminated vessel.

Record the collection time and deliver it promptly. Ask about storage if a delay is unavoidable.

For planned cystocentesis the bladder needs to be suitably full; avoid urination just before arrival if instructed.

Place a small amount of fresh faeces in a clean, sealed container.

Avoid contamination with litter, soil, grass, disinfectant or water.

Label the container with the patient’s name and the collection date and time.

Ask whether one sample or samples collected over several days are required.

Bring previous images and reports from other clinics.

Remove harnesses, collars, clothing and metal objects from the area when asked.

Report possible pregnancy, severe pain, breathing difficulty and any previous reaction to sedation or anaesthesia.

If sedation is needed, you will receive separate instructions about food, water and medication.

Give medication as usual unless the veterinarian says otherwise.

Bring a medication list, previous echo and ECG reports, radiographs, blood results and discharge notes.

Avoid intense exercise before blood-pressure measurement and arrive a few minutes early.

A small area of fur on the chest may be clipped for good probe contact.

Follow the clinic’s exact instructions for the last meal and access to water.

Do not stop long-term medication. Discuss insulin, anti-seizure and cardiac drugs, steroids and medicines affecting clotting.

Report vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, weakness, heat or any change since assessment.

Bring records, a carrier or lead, and a clean blanket or towel for the journey home.

Do not decide the fasting period yourself; it depends on the section examined and the patient’s condition.

Colonoscopy may require bowel preparation started in advance, only according to the veterinarian’s schedule.

Provide details of medication, allergies, previous anaesthesia and current symptoms.

Bring all records and test results used for assessment.

Do not rinse the eye or apply a product just before the visit unless it is ongoing prescribed treatment.

Bring all eye drops and record the time of the last dose.

Bring previous reports, photographs and information about eye injuries or surgery.

If possible, avoid tight clothing or accessories pressing on the neck before intraocular pressure measurement.

Bring the health record or passport, previous results, discharge notes, images and a medication list with doses.

Keep dogs on a lead with a well-fitted harness or collar. Transport cats and small animals in a secure carrier.

Bring a familiar blanket for anxious pets. Do not open the carrier in the waiting room without staff guidance.

Record unusual coughing, tremors, seizures, lameness or behaviour that may not be visible in the consultation room.