Who doesn't enjoy the energy of a lovable kitten or puppy? Kittens and puppies provide their pet parents with unconditional love. But working with your veterinarian to secure the best puppy care and kitten care is essential to giving your pet a good start in life. Here are three things your vet at Animal Hospital of Loves Park, IL wants you to know about keeping your young pets healthy.
Kitten Care and Puppy Care Starts Before You Bring Them Home
That first night away from their mother is a stressful event for any young animal. You can make your puppy or kitten feel loved by getting to know them even before you select them. If possible, visiting them several times, leaving them with something that has your scent, helps them to get to know you better. When you take your kitten or puppy home, make sure to bring a toy, a blanket, or some other item with the scent of their mother and their littermates to keep them comfortable.
You Need to Establish Care for Your Puppy or Kitten Early
Young pets need to be seen by vets on a predictable schedule.
Every kitten needs a trip to the veterinarian at the age of:
- Six to eight weeks for their FVRCP (feline herpes, calicivirus, and panleukopenia) vaccine, to make sure they do not have intestinal parasites, and to discuss nutrition.
- Twelve weeks for their second FVRCP shot and, if your vet determines it is needed, a feline leukemia virus (FLV) shot.
- Before the age of six months for a rabies shot. Your vet can work with you to find the best time to give this vaccine.
Every puppy needs a trip to the veterinarian at the age of:
- Six to eight weeks for distemper and parvovirus immunizations.
- Ten to twelve weeks for a DHHP(distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) shot, and possibly for immunizations against Lyme disease and leptospirosis.
- Sixteen to eighteen weeks for a rabies vaccine and another DHHP booster.
- Twelve to sixteen months for the second rabies shot and Bordetella immunizations if you keep your dog with other dogs in a kennel.
Speak with Your Vet About the Right Time for Spaying and Neutering
Most dogs and cats lead longer, happier, healthier lives if they are spayed or neutered, but different breeds need the procedure at different times. Your veterinarian at Animal Hospital of Loves Park, IL can advise on when the time is right.
Animal Hospital of Loves Park, IL is Here to Help!
Animal Hospital of Loves Park, IL is here to help you with all of your pet wellness needs. Call us at (815) 986-4445 to schedule your appointment today!