It is not uncommon for puppies to be born with or acquire various types of worms or other health conditions as their immune systems are still developing. Taking steps to establish care with a puppy vet near you can make a huge difference in their life and long-term health.
A puppy's first vet visit is an important milestone in their life. They may be nervous and fidgety. It’s your responsibility as the pet owner to help them feel calm, safe, and loved. Here’s a checklist of what to expect during your puppy’s first vet visit:
New kittens can light up a room with their naturally curious and mischievous personalities. Just like with a new puppy, kittens are still developing an immune system, which makes them more susceptible to parasites and other health conditions.
A kitten’s first vet visit is a vital step to ensuring that your feline friend grows up to be a strong and healthy cat. Here’s what to expect during your kitten’s first checkup:
Pets should be dewormed and vaccinated according to their age and health status. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed every two to three weeks until they are 12 weeks old, and then monthly until they are six months old. Adult pets should be put on heartworm prevention medication and dewormed as determined necessary by your vet.
Puppies and kittens should receive their first set of vaccinations at six to eight weeks of age, with boosters every two to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Adult pets should receive annual vaccinations to ensure they remain protected against common diseases. The specific vaccination schedule will depend on your pet's lifestyle and risk of exposure to certain diseases.
Puppies should have their first vet visit no later than eight weeks old. Monthly visits are recommended after that to monitor your puppy’s development and administer several rounds of vaccinations. You may also need to take your puppy to the vet unexpectedly if it starts to show signs of health concerns or requires emergency vet treatment.
Following a puppy vaccination schedule outlined by your vet is important to protect your puppy from infectious diseases that can be harmful or even fatal. Here is a typical vaccination schedule for puppies:
6 to 8 weeks: Distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza (DHPP) vaccine
10 to 12 weeks: DHPP vaccine booster
14 to 16 weeks: DHPP vaccine booster, rabies vaccine
12 to 24 weeks: Lyme disease vaccine (depending on geographic location and risk factors)
16 to 18 weeks: DHPP vaccine booster
Your Williamsburg veterinarian may recommend additional vaccines based on your puppy's lifestyle, geographic location, and risk factors for certain diseases. After the initial puppy vaccination schedule is complete, your pooch will need annual booster shots to maintain its immunity.
Finding a full service vet clinic in Brooklyn for your new furry friend is easy with our online direct booking feature. Both new and existing clients seeking care from a veterinarian may schedule an appointment at our Williamsburg clinic.
If your pet has ingested something that is possibly toxic, please call the Pet Poison Control center at 855-764-7661 or 888-426-4435.
Phone: 718-387-0541