For puppies and kittens, we like to do a series of
THREE EXAMS
that are 3-4 weeks apart. This is of course depending on the age of your puppy or kitten. In these series of exams, your pet’s doctor will be able to follow the growth of your furry-friend and ensure that they are developing correctly while also building their immunity to life-threatening diseases through a series of vaccines.
PUPPY CARE TIPS
KITTEN CARE TIPS
The first year of care for your new puppy or kitten is the most important. Like human infants, puppies and kittens require special attention to grow and develop well.
Our team of veterinarians partner with you to create a custom health plan so your new companion receives the care required to get the best start in life. Your puppy’s and kitten’s first year of care at Derry Animal Hospital includes:
- Physical Examinations: Your puppy’s or kitten’s lifetime of wellness starts with the first comprehensive physical exam. Puppies and kittens should have 3-4 exams between the ages of 8-16 weeks. These visits are important because they provide your pet’s veterinarian with an opportunity to assess your pet’s overall health and to administer vaccines.
- Vaccinations: Due to their developing immune systems, puppies and kittens must receive a series of properly staged vaccines. Because every puppy and kitten is unique, we tailor our vaccination recommendations based on their lifestyle, breed and suggested medical guidelines.
- Diagnostic Testing: Puppies should be tested for Heartworm and kittens tested for Feline Leukemia and Feline AIDS.
- Additional Recommendations: Your veterinarian will also discuss and recommend other services, such as spaying, neutering and microchipping.
We also take plenty of time during these visits to offer health care, nutrition and training advice and talk with you about any concerns you may have. This is your new kitten or puppy and we’re happy to answer all your questions.
Spay/Neuter Your Pet
Depending on the breed and age of your pet, your veterinarian will suggest a plan on when it is most beneficial to fix them. We will commonly discuss this during their final puppy/kitten exam, but if you have any questions or concerns before then, we are more than happy to answer!
How do I potty train my puppy?
HOW DO I SET A POTTY TRAINING SCHEDULE?
- First thing in the morning
- Last thing at night
- After spending time in a crate
- Upon waking up from a nap
- After eating or drinking
- Time between potty breaks
should be no more than 2-4 hours
HOW DO I CRATE TRAIN MY PUPPY?
- Dogs like clean “home” areas and are less likely to have accidents
- Place crate near exterior door for quick relief
- The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lay down
WHEN SHOULD I REINFORCE GOOD BEHAVIOR?
- Don’t scold your puppy for having an accident
- Praise them for doing the right thing
- Reward them with treats, pats, and attention
How do I get my puppy to stop bad behavior?
WHAT CAN MY PUPPY CHEW ON?
- Chewing is a calming mechanism for puppies
- Keep chewing toys around the house; when they start to chew on toys instead of household objects, give them praise
HOW DO I STOP MY PUPPY FROM BARKING?
- Scolding your puppy when they bark can make it worse; instead, ignore barking and praise quiet
- Training your dog to sit helps them fight impulsive barking when they want something
HOW DO I STOP MY PUPPY FROM BEGGING AT THE TABLE?
- Feed them first before you eat
- Create a cozy “go-to” spot near the table where they can be comfortable
- Praise them with treats when they don’t beg
How do I feed my puppy?
HOW OFTEN DO I FEED MY PUPPY?
- 6-12 weeks: 4x a day
- 3-6 months: 3x a day
- 6-12 months: 2x a day
- After a year: 2 half portions a day
- Watch your puppy to gauge if they are eating healthy
WHAT FOOD SHOULD I FEED MY PUPPY?
- Look for AAFCO guidelines
- Look for age and health specific formulas
- Ask your vet for tailored recommendations
WHAT ARE HARMFUL FOODS FOR PUPPIES?
Dairy, chocolate, grapes, and sugary foods, snacks, or desserts
What do I need to do to prepare for a kitten?
WHAT THINGS SHOULD I BUY FOR A KITTEN?
- Scratch posts (helps preserve furniture!)
- Litter boxes, cat carriers, and food and water bowls
- Stain and odor remover
WHAT SHOULD I MOVE OUT OF THE WAY?
- Toxic plants
- Cleaners and sprays
- Any dog food that might be in the house
HOW CAN MY CAT BE COMFORTABLE?
- Bed and blanket
- Small, cozy space
- Grooming supplies
- Pheromone products
How should I play with my kitten?
HOW DO I PLAY SAFELY WITH MY KITTEN?
- Use balls, jingles, anything on a string, and cotton chew toys
- Avoid “play” with your hands to avoid injury when full grown
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PLAYING WITH YOUR KITTEN?
- Strengthens your bond with your kitten
- Allows them to release energy that could lead to damage
- Builds trust and comfort for them within a new home
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I PLAY WITH MY KITTEN?
- 20+ minutes of play per day
- Set aside at least two times a day preferably early in the morning and late at night
How do I feed a kitten?
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FEED MY KITTEN?
- Dry food only: leave available at all times
- Wet food only: feed at least four times a day
- Combo: feed wet food twice a day and leave dry food available
WHAT SHOULD I FEED MY KITTEN?
- Look for AAFCO guidelines
- Look for age and health specific formulas
- Ask your vet for tailored recommendations
WHAT ARE HARMFUL FOODS FOR KITTENS?
- Raw meats, eggs, raw fish
- Grapes, chocolate, and dairy
