First Check UpPhysical Exam: | Check for congenital defects and overall general health. | Fecal Check: | For intestinal parasites (hookworms, roundworms, etc.) Many of these parasites are passed down from their mom. | Vaccinations: | Distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, cornavirus, parainfluenza. Please remember that puppies generally require a series of vaccinations and should not be taken outside until all vaccinations and boosters are completed. Vaccinations in a series are usually 3-4 weeks apart, depending on how old your puppy is. Ask your veterinarian. |
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Following VisitsPhysical Exam: | Check on the growth of pup and address and concerns. | Vaccinations: | Finish puppy vaccinations series according to your veterinarian. |
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Feeding Your New Puppy
It’s a good idea to have a feeding schedule. Offer food for 10-15 minutes and remove leftovers. This will train your dog to eat in a timely manner and be less picky. Other benefits include making housebreaking easier, controlling weight, and noticing if your pup may be sick. The type of food your pup eats is important. Diet is based on breed, age and energy level. For example, large breed dogs require special diets to reduce the risk of hip dysplasia. Ask your veterinarian to recommend a dog food for your pup. |
Grooming
Bathing every other week is sufficient. Too much bathing can cause dry skin/hair. Use a mild shampoo. Some shampoos are even age-specific, so read labels. Brush coat daily, brush teeth daily, and trim your pup’s nails every few weeks (don’t forget dewclaws.)
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Obedience/Socialization
Puppies should begin training early. Animal behaviorists believe that behaviors are formed during the first few months of life. Little things like touching feet, ears, and teeth on a daily basis will make grooming/medicating easier in the future. It will also make you aware of changes in your pet’s health. Obedience classes are available to help your teach your pup basic as well as advances commands.
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Heartworm Prevention
Heartworms are transmitted to dogs by mosquitoes. It’s necessary to keep up with your puppy’s once-a-month heartworm preventative medication. This preventative should be used for any dog’s entire lifespan and is the only way your dog will stay heartworm-free. They can be inexpensive and life saving. Preventatives are available in chewables, tablets, or topicals. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.
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Flea/Tick Control
Besides bathing your pet, you can use one of the many once-a-month preventatives offered by your veterinarian (check your pup’s age and weight first to purchase the correct product). Spraying your yard with an anti-flea/tick treatment may be helpful if your pets are outdoors and/or if your neighbors have pets too. Before your spray, please read labels. Certain chemicals may be harmful to your puppy.
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Sterilization
The earliest you can spay your pup (female) or neuter (male) is six months. This not only prevents unwanted puppies, but eliminates risks of cancers and deadly conditions, such as pyometra (pus-filled uterus), one of our most common emergency procedures for female dogs. Please spay or neuter if you are not planning to breed your pet. Our clinic participates in the City and County Sterilization Program so the fee is minimal.
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Other concerns
Other concerns may arise between now and your next visit, so please write them down for you vet to answer at the next appointment. Feel free to call with questions.
Once again, congratulations on your new puppy!
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