Nothing brings joy to a household like the introduction of a new puppy or kitten. The playful antics of these little guys plant them in our hearts immediately and set the stage for a lifelong love of the new family member.
Always remember that taking care of a new puppy or kitten is vitally important. Just like with babies and toddlers, kittens and puppies are prone to a variety of problems to which adult pets are less susceptible. The veterinarians and staff at Buckeye Veterinary Clinic are here to help guide new pet owners in what is best for the little additions.
Vaccinations
A puppy or kitten does not have the resistance to some diseases an older animal may have, so they need a series of vaccinations to help build up their immune systems.
Parasites
Kittens and puppies are more prone to many intestinal parasites than are older cats and dogs. Testing and treating a new puppy or kitten for these parasites will not only help the new pet thrive, but can also help keep you and your family safe as well. It is also important to begin defending your new family member against fleas and ticks and heartworm disease as early as possible. It takes six months after initial infection for a heartworm infection to be able to be detected, so preventing it from the start is far better than trying to treat it. Don’t forget, cats can get heartworm disease too.
Spaying and Neutering
The veterinarians and staff of Buckeye Veterinary Clinic can also advise you as to when is best to spay or neuter your pet. Did you know spaying your female dog before her first heat cycle can reduce her chance of getting breast cancer to less than 0.1%, but waiting until she is two years increases her chance of getting breast cancer to about 8%.
The veterinarians and staff of Buckeye are also able to advise you as to what diet is best for your new kitten or puppy. We also offer advice on house training, behavior, and a variety of other issues that if addressed early may make for a longer, happier life with the newest family member.