Spring is finally here. This is a great time of year to be a veterinarian. It is puppy and kitten season. I always think how lucky I am to get to see brand new additions to the family. Puppies and kittens certainly can make anyone’s day go better. And there are very few professions that get to play with puppies and kittens as part of their daily routine.
Educating the proud new owners about their little fuzzy bundle of joy is one of my most important jobs. How well we take care of the baby now will prepare it for a long and healthy life. There are many things to consider and on your first visit to your veterinarian, there is much to discuss.
Of course vaccines come to everyone’s minds first, and puppies and kittens require vaccinations to boost their immunity. Current recommendations are to vaccinate every 3-4 weeks, starting at 7 to 8 weeks old until at least 16 weeks old. Certain vaccinations are only needed for pets with certain lifestyles. Your veterinarian can help you decide what is best.
The most important part of a puppy or kitty’s first visit is a full physical exam. Your veterinarian will do a complete examination to evaluate if there are any problems that need addressing. Simple problems, such as umbilical hernias and loose rear dewclaws can be repaired at the time of spaying or neutering. More serious problems, such as heart murmurs or oral malformations may require more serious actions.
Most, if not all, puppies and kittens are born with worms. The mommy dog or cat can pass worms on to her babies through the milk. Some of the worms your puppy or kitten may have can pass on to your family. This is why I always caution children against letting their new puppy lick their face. Remember, a puppies tongue is his toilet paper! The Companion Animal Parasite Council, (www.capcvet.org), a group formed to develop recommendations to control parasites in pets, advises to deworm puppies and kittens at 2,4,6 and 8 weeks of age, then follow up with a monthly dewormer. Since we don’t see most pets until they are 8 weeks old, two dewormings are often the minimal recommendation, followed by a fecal exam. Monthly dewormers are used in many places in the United States to prevent heartworm. Because heartworm is rare in the Pacific Northwest, monthly dewormer is recommended for pets at risk of exposure to intestinal parasites. These pets include outdoor cats and dogs going to dog parks, doggie daycare or traveling. As usual, your vet can help you decide what is appropriate for your pet.
Diet is very important also, feeding a good quality food appropriate for your pet’s age, breed and activity is vital to insure a healthy, happy pet. Permanent identification with a microchip is also very important. This is an easy process that just takes a few minutes, and can be done at any time. Some people wait until the pet is spayed or neutered, but it can be done at any visit. Most veterinarians will spay or neuter pets around 6 months of age.
Training and behavior is very important in a young animal, especially puppies. Cats often seem to figure things out on their own! There are many obedience schools available; your veterinarian may have a recommendation. Make sure you check with the facility to find out the age and vaccine requirements for your puppy to attend.
If you have decided to add a new puppy or kitten to your family, congratulations! Next month, more parasite talk as I delve into the ever changing world of flea control. As usual, if you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me. mcaviness@wildernessvet.com
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