Puppy and Kitten Care
If you have just brought home a new puppy or kitten here are a few important things to consider about your new companion.
- Schedule a Check-up: As soon as you bring your puppy or kitten home, schedule a comprehensive wellness exam with the veterinarian. This can also be done at the same time as the first round of vaccinations. This initial visit will help establish a baseline for your animal's health and allow the vet to address any immediate concerns (e.g. hernias, hind dew claws, abnormal teeth/dentition).
- Vaccinations: Ensure your puppy or kitten receives the necessary vaccinations to protect against common diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, feline herpes virus and more. The first round of vaccinations and microchipping is often performed by the breeder, so it can be helpful to bring along any paperwork you have received to help the vet determine a vaccination schedule tailored to your puppy or kitten's needs. Puppies and kittens also need to be quarantined until 2 weeks after their final round of vaccinations to protect them from the disease listed above. This excludes visits with family or friends’ animals who are vaccinated as well as puppy pre-school so socialisation is still strongly encouraged during this time. If you are unsure ask your vet.
- Parasite Prevention: Discuss options for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention with your vet. Parasite control is essential for your puppy or kitten's growth, health and well-being.
- Diet and Nutrition: Consult with your veterinarian about your puppy or kitten's dietary needs. They can recommend a balanced diet suitable for your pet's age, breed, and health status.
- Spaying or Neutering: Discuss the appropriate timing for spaying or neutering your puppy or kitten with your vet. This procedure can help prevent unwanted litters and provide health benefits for your pet.
- Dental Care: Start good dental hygiene habits early. Your vet can advise you on proper dental care, including brushing your puppy or kitten's teeth and providing dental chews or toys.
- Behaviour and Training: If you have concerns about your puppy's behaviour or need advice on training, don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian for guidance. They can offer tips and resources to help you raise a well-behaved and socialized dog. Socialisation is still possible and very important during the quarantine period for vaccines. Puppy school is strongly encouraged to help with social development but safe socialisation can also include exposing any pet to new challenges in a positive way. This can include treat-based rewards for walking on floors of different textures, or exposing them to low volume firework or storm noises from a video or sound recording. This can all be done in the safety of your own home without risking your pet’s health by taking them out before their quarantine period is over.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular wellness exams for your puppy to monitor their growth and overall health. Your vet can detect any potential health issues early and provide appropriate treatment.
- Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency veterinary clinic in case of accidents or sudden illnesses outside of regular business hours. We have some close Emergency Clinics listed on our Contacts page.
- Pet Insurance: Does your specific breed of puppy or kitten have a genetic predisposition to any disease processes? Is the environment they are to be housed in 100% safe? Pet Insurance may be worth looking in to. Our veterinary clinic does not recommend any one particular insurance company as picking an insurance company is very similar to picking a doctor.
Remember, your veterinarian is your trusted partner in ensuring your puppy or kitten’s health and well-being. Don't hesitate to reach out to them with any questions or concerns you may have about your puppy and kitten’s care.
