New Pet Info
Give your new pet the best start in life.
Although every puppy or kitten will need routine veterinary care during their first year, each of them will require an individualized plan. Let’s work together to determine how we can give your new furry friend the best start in life possible.
What should my pet’s first year look like?
During their first year, your kitten or puppy will require regular visits with their veterinarian. These visits are comprised of physical exams, vaccinations, and diagnostic testing– all of which allow us to keep tabs on your pet’s health as they grow and develop.
- Physical Exams
A lifetime of wellness starts with your pet’s very first physical exam. Unlike adult pets, puppies and kittens require approximately 3-4 exams during their first 8-16 weeks. At those exams, your pet will receive important vaccines and assessments of their overall health.
- Vaccines
Because the immune system is still developing, puppies and kittens must receive a series of properly staged vaccines including boosters. We tailor our vaccine recommendations based on your pet’s individual lifestyle and breed using guidelines established by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
- Diagnostic Testing
Both puppies and kittens should have certain diagnostic tests over the course of their first year. Puppies should be tested for heartworm by 12 months of age, if not before. Kittens, on the other hand, should be tested for feline leukemia (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) during their first exam.
In addition to examining your new pet and providing them with vaccines and diagnostics, your veterinarian will discuss other services that could help them live a longer, healthier life, such as spaying and neutering.
Helpful Information for your new family member.
The importance of monthly preventatives for dogs and cats.
Parasites are organisms that feed on or within other animals. Fleas and ticks are the most well-known offenders, but they are only part of the picture. Other common parasites include heartworm, mites, and a multitude of intestinal and other parasites. Monthly prevention is necessary to keep your pet protected. We are here to advise you on the products that are recommended by your veterinarian as effective prevention. Read more here >>
- If your dog was sent home with Nexgard Plus, get more info here >>
- If your cat was sent home with Revolution or Revolution Plus, get more info here >>
- Learn about the parasites that could affect your new pet here >>
Pet Health Insurance
At Hampstead Animal Hospital we see pet insurance as an important part of owning a pet, it can be extremely helpful in covering the costs of unexpected veterinary care. There are lots of good insurance companies out there, consider visiting this website to get started. We think you’ll find it helpful in selecting an insurance plan that works for you and your family.
Pet Poison Helpline
Was your pet just exposed to something harmful? Call the Pet Poison Helpline immediately. The sooner an exposure or poisoning is addressed, the easier, less expensive, and safer it is to treat.
Emergencies Hospitals in our area: https://hampsteadanimalhospital.com/services/emergency-vet
Visit our Puppy Information Page >>
Visit our Kitten Information Page >>
