Arlington Dog and Cat Hospital        


Congratulations - you have a new puppy or kitten!

You’ve anticipated the new arrival by 'puppy proofing' your home and had lots of fun choosing the bed, blanket, toys and other supplies they will need. This frisky little creature is sure to bring you much joy. In return, you can make a major contribution to your pet’s longevity, happiness and quality of life by providing him/her with good nutrition, loving attention in a safe, clean environment and regular checkups with us!

They're so irresistible and cute! And don't forget fun!!  
A new puppy or kitten can add some joy and love to anyone's life!



As their new owner and best friend, your new puppy or kitten will depend on you for everything, so they can live long and happy lives!!  They'll need you to keep up with feeding, water, exercise, training, hygiene and keeping clean, maintaining good health, and, of course, lots of TLC! (that's the easy part)

There's a lot to learn when taking on the responsibilty of welcoming a new furry friend to your home, so get ready to explore the fun filled world of puppies and kittens! Don't worry.  We, at Arlington Dog and Cat, will answer to all your questions and needs!!    


 

Your puppy or kitten's basic health check
Your new puppy or kitten should visit us as soon as possible. The first visit will probably include:

  • A thorough physical examination to determine his/her state of health.
  • Check for parasites (fleas, ticks, lice, ear mites, worms).
  • Initial vaccination and/or a discussion of the types of vaccinations that are needed and when they should be scheduled.
  • Discussion about whether your puppy or kitten's neutering and when.

This first health check will give your veterinary surgeon the information needed to advise you on your puppy’s immediate diet and care. Plus, it will create a “knowledge base” from which, on subsequent checkups throughout your pup’s life, he/she can better evaluate, monitor and manage your pet’s health.




Make your new pup or kitten feel at home
Show your puppy or kitten the special places where he/she can eat, sleep and go to the toilet and, since they're probably quite overwhelmed, give them some quiet time to adjust to the unfamiliar sights and sounds of the new home. If there are young children in the home, make sure that they are taught that a puppy is not a toy but a living creature who must be treated with gentleness and respect. As early as 8 weeks old, your puppy is capable of learning specific lessons - 
so start home training and teaching simple obedience commands the day you bring them home. We can suggest the best training methods and, if you wish, recommend a good obedience school. Your pup will find learning fun and easy and, with your positive reinforcement, should remember lessons well!

With sensitive handling and friendly contact for at least an hour a day, your new kitten should soon be very comfortable with you and the new home. If there are young children in the home, make sure that they are taught that a kitten is not a toy but a living creature who must be treated with gentleness and respect. Also provide your pet with lots of opportunities for interesting, challenging play that will satisfy natural instincts. Toys that they can pretend to 'hunt' and capture and special posts that can be scratched (instead of your carpets and furniture) will help make your kitten a joy to live with.

Here are a few very important things to keep in mind when adopting a new puppy or kitten:

*Vaccinations start at 6-8 weeks of age.  Don't forget the importance of vaccinating your pet to ensure proper resistance to viruses.  Especially when considering how vulnerable your puppy and kitten is at a young age.  Is your pet older than 6-8 weeks? No worries! We can catch them up!

*Parasites, parasites, parasites.  Deworming against  intestinal_parasites, and knowing what to look for.

*Testing your pet's fecal sample (it's a good idea to bring a sample with you to your first visit)                                                                                  
                                                          
*Starting flea and tick protection, as well as Heartworm preventative for puppies.

*Feline leukemia/ immunodeficiency virus test (also known as FELV/FIV testing) for kittens.

*Spaying or neutering your pet at 6 months of age or older, and understanding the benefits.
 *Considering a microchip for permanent identification, so you are able to  find your pet in case he/she runs away!

**Please remember to bring a copy of any paperwork you have obtained from your pet's breeder, pet shop, shelter, or individual so we can appropriately continue your pet's vaccine protocal and provide your new friend with exactly what he or she needs!

Have any questions? Bring them with you! That's what we're here for!