Loving Care for Your Puppy & Kitten
Congratulations on this addition to your family! One of the first things you should do when you bring your new pet home is to introduce him or her to us - your veterinary care team. Puppy and kitten visits offer a unique opportunity to get you and your new pet off on the right foot! We are here to help you navigate the essentials for puppy care and kitten care to ensure your new pet stays happy and healthy.
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Puppies & Kittens Need Special Care
Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. As a pet owner, it is important to provide your furry friend with the best possible care to ensure a long and healthy life. This includes proper veterinary care, nutrition, training, vaccinations, grooming, parasite protection, microchipping, and spaying or neutering. To learn more about our Standards of Care for your new furry family member click here.
Veterinary Care
First and additional visits are important for establishing a relationship with us. This allows us to get to know your pet and their unique needs, as well as provide personalized care and advice for your pet’s health.
We can also answer any questions you may have about your new pet’s behavior, diet, and overall care. This relationship is crucial for ensuring your pet receives the best possible care throughout their life.
Early Detection of Health Issues
During first and additional visits, we will perform a thorough physical examination of your pet. This allows us to detect any underlying health issues that may not be immediately apparent.
Early detection of health issues is crucial for your pet’s health and can prevent more serious health problems down the line. We can also provide recommendations for any necessary treatments or lifestyle changes to keep your pet healthy.
Nutrition
A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for the growth and development of your puppy or kitten. It is important to choose a high-quality pet food that is appropriate for their age and size. We will provide recommendations on the best diet for your pet. Avoid giving your pet table scraps or human food, as this can lead to health issues and obesity.
Training
Proper training is crucial for the well-being of your pet and the harmony of your household. Start training your puppy or kitten as soon as possible to establish good behaviors and prevent bad habits. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are effective in training your pet. Consider enrolling your pet in obedience classes for more structured training.
Vaccinations & Schedules
Vaccinations are an important aspect of preventative care for your pet. They protect against common and potentially deadly diseases, such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. We will create a vaccination schedule for your pet based on their age and lifestyle. It is important to stay up-to-date on vaccinations to ensure your pet's continued health.
Puppy Vaccinations
Puppies should receive their first set of vaccinations at 8 weeks of age. These vaccinations include:
At 12 weeks of age, your puppy will receive a booster for the vaccinations they received at 8 weeks. They may also receive a vaccination for Lyme disease, which is recommended for puppies who live in areas with year-round ticks. In addition, your puppy will receive their first Leptospirosis and Canine Influenza vaccines.
Your puppy will also receive a rabies vaccination at 16 weeks of age. This is a core vaccination that is required by law.
Kitten Vaccinations
Kittens should receive their first set of vaccinations at 8 weeks of age. These vaccinations include:
At 12 weeks of age, your kitten will receive a booster for the vaccinations they received at 8 weeks.
At 16 weeks of age, your kitten will receive a booster for the vaccinations they received at 12 weeks. They may also receive a vaccination for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which is recommended for kittens who will be outdoors or live with other cats who have tested positive for FIV.
They will also receive a rabies vaccination at 16 weeks of age, which is a core vaccination required by law.
Grooming
Regular grooming is not only important for keeping your pet looking and smelling their best, but it also promotes good health. Brushing your pet's coat helps distribute natural oils and prevents matting. It also allows you to check for any skin issues or parasites. Regular nail trims and ear cleanings are also important for maintaining your pet's hygiene.
Parasite Protection
Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable to parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and worms. These parasites can cause a range of health issues and can even be transmitted to humans. It is important to use preventative measures, such as flea and tick medication, and to regularly deworm your pet.
Microchipping
Microchipping is a simple and effective way to ensure your pet can be identified if they ever get lost. A small microchip is inserted under your pet's skin, containing a unique identification number that can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter. This can greatly increase the chances of being reunited with your pet if they ever go missing.
Spay and Neuter
Spaying and neutering not only helps control the pet population, but it also has health benefits for your pet. It can reduce the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues, such as aggression and roaming. We will discuss with you the best time to spay or neuter your pet.
By following these guidelines for puppy and kitten care, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your new furry friend. With proper care and attention, your pet will bring joy and companionship for years to come.