Steps to spaying

Question
Hi I have a miniature Dachshund (Sadie) that i need to get spayed. She is almost 17 weeks old. I got her when she was about 7 weeks old and her previous owner gave the puppies there shots herself (she purchased them at the feed store). I have not took her to the vet to get a check up yet. Can i just make an appointment when she needs to be spayed or does she have to get a check up and any additional shots before she gets spayed?

Answer
At 17 weeks she should have been wormed at least twice, had 2 sets of shots, and been checked by the vet for any health issues.  To keep her healthy, you should get her the asap and make an appointment while there.  She could get some shots in the same appointment for spaying, but she is still young so go to your vet asap.  BTW - 7 weeks is too young to sell a puppy by law in most states and I would wonder if she really got shots at all - your vet might not think so either.  Lots of breeders say they give them and do not - especially backyard breeders and anyone who sells a 7 week old should know better.  I would be suspicious about her earlier care and have your vet look at her.  She might have gotten them, but better to be safe.  Besides, as I mentioned, she is past due for boosters.  I bet she is cute!