Importance of Early Veterinary Care for Puppies and Kittens
Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your family is an exciting and joyful experience. One of the most important steps you can take for your new furry friend is to begin veterinary care early.
Puppies and kittens are vulnerable to illness and need proper support to grow into healthy, happy adults.
Early veterinary visits allow us to detect any potential health concerns, provide essential preventative care, and guide you through the early stages of your pet’s development.
The earlier we begin, the better we can ensure a strong foundation for lifelong wellness.
Components of an Early Veterinary Care
Vaccinations
Vaccinations protect your pet from common and potentially serious diseases. We administer all core and recommended vaccines to protect your puppy or kitten against common diseases. Puppies typically receive vaccines for distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and rabies, while kittens are vaccinated against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, feline leukemia and rabies.
Nutritional Counseling
Proper nutrition is essential for growth. We’ll recommend age-appropriate diets and feeding schedules to meet your pet’s unique needs and help avoid common issues like obesity or nutritional deficiencies.
Deworming
Puppies and kittens are especially susceptible to intestinal parasites. Our deworming protocols and parasite prevention treatments help ensure your pet is protected from worms, fleas, ticks, and heartworms.
Behavioral Assessments
Early behavioral assessments help identify any potential issues and provide guidance on training and socialization. Understanding normal vs. concerning behaviors early helps prevent long-term issues. We provide guidance on house training, biting, play behavior, and more, tailored to your pet’s temperament and breed. This ensures your pet develops into a well-adjusted adult.
Benefits of Establishing a Wellness Plan
Creating a wellness plan during your pet’s early months provides lasting benefits, including:
- Consistent health monitoring and timely interventions
- Cost-effective preventive care
- A trusting relationship between your pet and their veterinary team
- Peace of mind for you as a pet parent
- We’ll work with you to build a customized wellness plan that evolves as your pet grows, ensuring they stay healthy at every life stage.
Socialization Tips
Socialization is critical in the first months, especially in the first 16 weeks. It reduces fear and aggression later. Socialization is essential for puppies and kittens to become confident adults. Here are some tips:
Introduction
Introduce your puppy or kitten to a variety of people, pets, sounds, environments and objects to reduce fear of new stimuli
Safe Environments
Introduce your pet to other healthy, vaccinated animals and people in controlled settings
Start Early
Begin socializing your pet between 7-16 weeks for puppies and 7-14 weeks for kittens
Treats
Use positive reinforcement when they experience something new. Use treats and praise to reward good behavior during socialization
Enjoy
Keep initial experiences short, safe, and enjoyable.
Kindergarten
Enroll in puppy socialization or kitten kindergarten classes if available
Always consult your vet about safe timing for socialization, especially around other animals before vaccination is complete.
Vaccination Schedule
Your veterinarian will tailor this schedule based on your pet’s breed, environment, and risk factors.
Puppies
- 8 Weeks: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
- 12 Weeks: DHPP booster, Leptospirosis, Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
- 16 Weeks: DHPP booster, Leptospirosis, Rabies, Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
- Lyme and Canine Influenza*
- based on lifestyle discussions with your veterinarian.
Kittens
- 8 Weeks: FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
- 12 Weeks: FVRCP booster, FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)
- 16 Weeks: FVRCP booster, Rabies, FELV booster
Book Your Puppy or Kitten’s First Visit Today!
Getting started early sets your pet up for a lifetime of health and happiness. Call us or book online to schedule your puppy or kitten’s wellness appointment today. We’re excited to meet your new best friend!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I bring my new puppy or kitten for their first vet visit?
We recommend bringing your new puppy or kitten in for their first veterinary visit as soon as possible—ideally within 48-72 hours. It’s also a great time to ask any questions and get personalized advice on nutrition, behavior, and training.
What vaccinations does my puppy or kitten need?
Puppies and kittens need a series of core vaccines—typically including distemper, parvovirus, and rabies—starting around 6–8 weeks of age.
When can I take them to the park?
t’s safest to wait until your pet has completed their full vaccination series, usually around 16 weeks, before visiting public parks or social settings.
How do I teach them to pee in the right place?
Consistency is key. Use positive reinforcement, take them out frequently, and reward them immediately when they go in the right spot; we’re happy to share training tips at your next visit!
What are possible vaccine reactions and how should I handle them?
Mild sleepiness, soreness, or a small bump at the injection site is normal; if you notice vomiting, swelling, or trouble breathing, call us right away.
