Adopting or purchasing a new puppy or kitten is a very exciting time. With all the laughter and joy their antics bring, it is important to remember that pet ownership is a lifelong commitment. There are many important steps to making sure your new family member starts with the best paw forward.

Vaccinations: Many puppies and kittens will have their first set of vaccinations prior to arrival in your home, but they will require subsequent vaccinations to ensure that they continue to remain healthy and free of many preventable diseases.

Puppies will require vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks of age, 10-12 weeks of age, and 14-16 weeks of age. Kittens follow a similar interval.

Boosters are important for many different reasons. Puppies and kittens do not yet possess fully competent immune systems. There is a period of maternal protection where the baby can be protected by the mother’s antibodies, but there can be a lag before full immunity kicks in. This is why vaccines are so important.

The core vaccines for puppies include Parvovirus, Distemper virus, Bordetella, Rabies and optional Leptospirosis depending on their lifestyle. Kittens will receive FVRCP, Rabies, and optionally FELV vaccinations.

It is vital to make sure that your new family member is not exposed to public places until the vaccination series have been completed. This includes, but is not limited to, avoiding public parks, dog parks, groomers, boarding facilities and pet stores.

Deworming: Breeders will often deworm prior to adoption, but it is a good idea to continue this practice during the next few booster visits. Puppies and kittens are inquisitive by nature and constantly exploring. They tend to chew on random things and dig, both of which can sometimes result in attracting parasites. Puppies and kittens can also be infected by worms from their mothers during nursing.

Parasite prevention: Puppies and kittens will start medication for flea, tick, heartworm, and intestinal parasite prevention generally around 6-12 weeks of age depending on the product. It is important to practice a good preventative medicine early on to make sure your pet stays healthy and protected.

Nutrition: There are many puppy and kitten foods on the market. While there is no one perfect choice, it is important to look for an AAFCO label. This label should state that your choice of food has the nutritional requirements to meet the needs of a growing puppy or kitten. Large breed puppies also have different needs than smaller dogs.

Teething: Your puppy at times reminds you of a raptor during his/her early phases, and your baby kitten’s teeth can pierce like a razor. It is best to encourage bite inhibition. While it may be cute to play games, biting is not a positive behavior to reinforce. Generally the best method to deal with excessive teething is distraction and redirection with toys.

Socialization: Everyone wants to show off their new pet as soon as possible, but it is best to exercise some restraint. After finishing the vaccination series, it is prime time to start practicing socialization skills. Make sure to always keep your pet on a leash when going outside. It is important for the collar or harness to fit snugly so that you can make sure your pet is secure. Socialization takes time and should be closely monitored, especially if you plan to take your dog to a park with other dogs.

Getting used to examinations: While your pet is young, it is important to make sure to get them comfortable with touching their ears and paws. This will make cleaning the ears and nail trims easier later in life. Looking at the teeth and making sure your pet is comfortable with touch will also make examinations easier.

Potty training: There is no right or wrong way to potty train. Some people utilize crate training while others use potty pads. One important note is that positive reinforcement will always yield better results. A little praise and a few treats will go a long way to building your pet’s trust.

Kittens generally take very well to a litter box. It is important to clean it often and make sure that the area is private. It is recommended to have at least one litter box per cat if you have a multiple cat household.

When to spay and neuter: Spaying and neutering is an important topic which will come up toward the end of your pet’s vaccine series. Sterilization is recommended to help prevent mammary tumors and pyometra concerns in females later in life. Male dogs can have behavior concerns, marking behavior and prostate and testicular problems as they get older. Some people promote waiting a bit longer in very large breed dogs, but this is a decision that you should make with your veterinarian to determine the best time for your individual pet.

How exciting and wonderful it is to have a new family member in your home! Be sure to make an appointment with your veterinarian for a complete physical exam and all necessary wellness treatments. If you do not have a regular veterinarian or are new to the area, call Vetsavers Pet Hospital at 972-939-0900. At Vetsavers we provide exceptional care at an affordable price. Vetsavers is open seven days a week for your convenience and your pet’s first physical exam with a doctor is free.