Welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting time, and it’s important to make sure they receive the proper care they need to grow and thrive. Here are some of the essential pet services your new pet will require in the first 12 months.
When bringing home a new pet, one of the first things you should schedule is a visit to the veterinarian. The first appointment will be especially important, as it will give your vet a chance to get to know your pet and establish a baseline for their health. During the appointment, your vet will conduct a head-to-tail examination of your pet to ensure they are healthy. They will also take the time to get to know your pet and ask you questions about their lifestyle, diet, and behavior. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about caring for your pet, from nutrition to training tips. After the initial appointment, ongoing veterinary care will be necessary to ensure your pet stays healthy. Regular check-ups will allow your vet to catch any potential health issues early on, before they become more serious.
Vaccinations are just as important for adult dogs and cats as they are for puppies and kittens. However, the frequency of vaccinations may differ depending on the individual pet’s lifestyle and risk factors. Generally, dogs and cats should receive a core set of vaccines that protect them against rabies and other common viruses including, canine distemper, parvovirus, feline leukemia and calicivirus. Some pets may also require non-core vaccinations based on their lifestyle, such as the bordetella vaccine for dogs who go to dog parks or boarding facilities. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on the appropriate vaccination schedule for your pet. Keep in mind that vaccinations not only protect your pet from serious illnesses, but they also help protect humans from zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted from pets.
Intestinal parasites are a common problem for both dogs and cats, especially for pets who spend time outdoors or around other animals. These parasites can cause a range of health problems, from diarrhea to malnutrition. Regular deworming is an important part of your pet’s preventative healthcare routine. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed starting at 2 weeks of age and continuing every 2-4 weeks until they are 12 weeks old. Your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate deworming schedule for your pet based on their individual needs and lifestyle. In most cases, we recommend monthly deworming for dogs as well as cats who are outdoor cats.
Spaying or neutering your new pet is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. This procedure can help prevent unwanted litters, as well as reduce the risk of certain health and behavioral issues. Most veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering cats when they are around 5-6 months of age. For dogs, however, the decision about when to have the procedure done involves several factors. Spaying and neutering are typically very safe procedures, and in most cases, your pet can return home on the same day. It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s post-operative care instructions and monitor your pet closely for any signs of complications.
House training is a crucial procedure for young puppies and kittens, necessitating patience and a consistent approach. Puppies and kittens possess an innate inclination to relieve themselves beyond their designated space. Upon bringing your new pet home, promptly initiate the process of instructing them where they can eliminate waste. Develop a set schedule for feeding and bathroom breaks, ensuring to take them outdoors frequently, particularly after meals, play sessions, and naps. Commend and reward them with praise and treats when they successfully eliminate waste outside, refraining from punishing them for accidents that may occur indoors.
Behavior training is an essential part of your new pet’s life, and it will help them become well-behaved and happy members of your family. Basic training commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel, can be taught with positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and playtime. Socialization is another crucial aspect of behavior training. Exposing your new pet to various situations and people will help them become comfortable and confident in different environments. You can also enroll your puppy in socialization classes to help them learn valuable socialization and behavior skills.
Microchipping is a simple procedure that can help ensure your pet is always safe and can be reunited with you if they become lost. A microchip is a small, permanent ID tag that is implanted under your pet’s skin. The tag contains a unique identification number that can be read with a special scanner. Most animal shelters and veterinarians have these scanners, so if your pet becomes lost and is found, they can be easily scanned and returned to you. Microchipping is a painless procedure and can be done during a regular veterinary exam.
Pet insurance is a good way to protect your new pet’s health and your finances in case of unexpected illnesses or injuries. Most pet insurance policies cover a range of veterinary services, including routine exams, vaccinations, surgeries, and medications. Before choosing a policy, make sure you understand the coverage and any exclusions or limitations. You can also talk to your veterinarian about which policy they recommend.
Here are some helpful articles, pet medication information and other health topics relevant to you and your pet.
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*The following tale was written by our client and friend, Jon A. Thank you, Jon, for sharing your story.
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