What to write down before your dog’s vet appointment

Start with the reason for the visit

Write one plain sentence about the change you noticed or the routine care you want to discuss. “She has left part of breakfast on three mornings” is an observation. “She definitely has a food allergy” is a conclusion that your notes cannot establish. If you are unsure how urgently your dog needs assessment, call the practice and describe the situation; do not wait for a scheduled visit to finish a perfect record.

Build a short timeline

Use dates where possible and keep uncertainty visible. If you do not know when a change began, say so. A simple one-page note helps different caregivers contribute without burying the main question in a long message thread.

• What is different from your dog’s usual pattern?
• When did you first notice it, and has it changed?
• What food, medicines or supplements are currently given?
• Has another caregiver noticed anything relevant?
• Which question would you most like answered today?

Keep instructions in their original form

Take the relevant medication packaging or a clear list and follow the practice’s instructions about records or samples. Do not change a prescribed dose or stop treatment based on your own reading of the log. If a second person is taking the dog, give them the notes and make sure they know how to contact you.

Close the loop after the appointment

Leave space to write the plan in the vet’s words. Before leaving, clarify anything you do not understand, including what changes should trigger a call and when follow-up is needed. At home, record who is doing each agreed task. This final handover is the part most likely to prevent two people each assuming the other has dealt with it.