Puppy Care Tips from our Sylvania Veterinarian
Congratulations on making the decision to include a puppy as a new member of your family. Your new puppy will provide you with many years of companionship, affection, and devotion. Your puppy will require some special care in order for him to be a happy, healthy and well-socialized family pet. Here are a few tips to help ensure your puppy gets off to the right start.
Wellness Exams
As soon as you get your puppy, it is essential that you schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to get your puppy a physical exam. During the wellness exam, the vet examines your pet to check for the presence of ticks, fleas and intestinal worms as well as recommend a preventive plan against these parasites. This initial wellness exam is also used to create a base for future visits.
Vaccinations
One of the most important ways to ensuring your puppy is protected from diseases and life-threatening illnesses are getting their vaccinations. The vaccines typically recommended for puppies include:
- DHPPC, which is used to protect your puppy for a number of deadly, contagious diseases, including Parvo and distemper
- Bordetella, also known as kennel cough, is an intranasal vaccine used to prevent contagious tracheal bronchitis
- Rabies vaccine which is given to puppies at 16 weeks or older in order to protect them against exposure to the rabies virus
Parasite Control
Your puppy many carry several intestinal parasites, so your veterinarian will proactively deworm all puppies. It is important to keep in mind that it is normal for these worms to pass into their feces following treatment and the standard medication for deworming doesn't treat all the different types of parasites your puppy may have, so it is critical that you obtain a stool sample to use for parasite testing. Since some parasites your puppy may carry are transmissible to humans, a test sample is critical for your pet’s health as well as the protection of your family. It is also important to discuss a flea and heartworm control plan with your vet.
Your few initial visits with the veterinarian may seem overwhelming, because there is a lot of information to take in, but it is designed for the health and well-being of the growth of your puppy. Some of the other things to discuss with your vet should include spaying & neutering, which are beneficial for preventing several serious illnesses, special diet considerations, especially if your puppy has digestive problems and behavioral training and socialization.
Schedule an Appointment with our Sylvania Veterinarian
To learn more about how to care for a new puppy and to schedule a wellness exam, contact SylvaniaVET.