Chula’s New Beginning: A Ball-Chasing Lab with a Story to Tell

There’s a special kind of quiet when a new rescue dog comes home for the first time. It’s a mix of hope, nerves, and the gentle sound of paws exploring a new life. Recently, our own Dr. Michele Estheimer experienced that quiet firsthand when she welcomed Chula, a 4-year-old black Labrador, into her home. Chula’s journey started at Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue (DLRR), an incredible organization dedicated to giving displaced Labs a second chance. For Dr. E, bringing Chula home wasn’t just about adopting a pet—it was about putting the same compassion she offers her patients into practice in her own life.

A Rescue Lab with a Lot of Love (and Energy)
Chula is, in a word, a classic Lab. She’s a whirlwind of happy energy, and her entire world revolves around a tennis ball. She’s also a testament to the resilience of rescue dogs. Despite an unknown past, her capacity for trust and affection is endless. From the moment she arrived, Dr. E’s life has been filled with more muddy paw prints, more games of fetch, and a whole lot more love.
Adopting an adult dog like Chula comes with its own beautiful journey of discovery. Dr. E is learning all about her quirks—like her obsession with her green stuffed dinosaur, Dino, and her habit of “talking” when she gets excited. This experience has been a powerful reminder for Dr. E of what her clients go through when they welcome a new pet. It’s a journey of building trust, learning a new routine, and navigating the little bumps along the way. It has reinforced her belief that every adopted dog vet needs to be a partner, not just a doctor.

From First Exam to First Beach Day
One of the first and most important stops for Chula was, of course, Tangerine Pet Clinic. But this time, she wasn’t just another patient; she was family. As a veterinarian, Dr. E knew the importance of a thorough dog wellness exam for any new pet, especially a rescue. This first visit is crucial for establishing a health baseline and catching any hidden issues.
This is where our clinic’s philosophy truly shines. At Tangerine Pet Clinic, we are committed to a Fear-Free, Pet-First approach. We know vet visits can be stressful, so we do everything we can to make it a positive experience. For Chula’s exam, that meant:

• Getting comfortable on the floor instead of on a cold, slippery table.
• Using lots of treats and praise to build a positive association.
• Giving her time and space to sniff around and acclimate to the room and our team.

The exam showed Chula was in great health, though she did have some mild skin irritation, a common issue for labs that we’re now managing with a simple dietary supplement. Getting that clean bill of health was the official start of her new life. A few weeks later, she was splashing in the waves on her very first beach day—healthy, happy, and finally home.

Why Rescue Pets Deserve the Best Start
Every rescue pet has a story, and often, part of that story is a mystery. That’s why a new pet vet visit is one of the most important things you can do for them. It’s about more than just shots.
A comprehensive wellness exam allows us to:

• Create a complete health record: We’ll check for a microchip, run baseline blood work, and get a clear picture of their current health.
• Address immediate needs: We can treat common rescue issues like parasites, skin conditions, or dental problems.
• Establish a vaccination plan: We’ll make sure they are protected based on their history and lifestyle.
• Discuss nutrition and behavior: We can help you choose the right food and offer guidance on helping your new companion adjust to their home.

Giving your adopted dog the best possible start is a promise—a promise that their future will be filled with health, happiness, and compassionate care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do right after adopting a rescue dog?
The first step is to give them a quiet, calm space to decompress. Establish a routine for feeding, potty breaks, and walks. Then, schedule a wellness exam with your veterinarian within the first week to ensure they get a healthy start in their new home.

Do rescue dogs need a special first vet visit?
Yes, in a way. The first visit for a rescue is a comprehensive check-up that focuses on creating a complete health profile. Since their history is often unknown, your vet will likely recommend baseline diagnostics to screen for any underlying conditions and ensure their vaccinations and parasite prevention are up to date.

How can I keep my Lab healthy and active?
Labradors are high-energy dogs that need regular exercise like running, swimming, and fetching to stay physically and mentally healthy. For their diet, choose a high-quality food formulated for active, large-breed dogs to support their joints and energy levels. Regular vet check-ups are also key to proactive Labrador care in AZ.

Your Partner in Pet Health
Chula’s story is a perfect reflection of what we stand for at Tangerine Pet Clinic: a deep love for animals, a commitment to our community, and a belief in gentle, personalized care. Whether you’ve just welcomed a new rescue or are caring for a long-time furry family member, we’re here to be your partner every step of the way.
Ready to give your pet the best start? Make an appointment today. You can also contact us at (520) 848-3644.

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