5 Important Things You Need to Know When You Bring a New Puppy or Kitten Home

Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your family is an exciting time, and everyone at Granville Small Animal Hospital is committed to helping you keep him or her healthy right from the start.

Our veterinarians and staff want to ensure your new furry family member receives all the love and care he or she needs most during this crucial period of mental and physical development.

Keep your new pet healthy and safe

  1. ESSENTIAL VACCINES – Remember, the immunities passed on to a young animal by its mother last only a few weeks. Series of vaccinations protect against disease and helps ensure your pet grows to be a happy, healthy adult. Veterinarians recommend puppy and kitten immunizations start at approximately 6 to 8 weeks of age.
  1. PET LICENSE – Obtaining a license for your pet ensures your pet will be easily identified and returned home quickly and safely if he or she ever gets lost. Most municipalities require pet licenses around the time of your puppy or kitten’s first rabies vaccination.
  1. WELLNESS – One of the best ways to keep your new pet in top health is with regular check-ups and regular routines. This sets the foundation to keep you pet happy and healthy. At Granville Small Animal Hospital, our veterinarians work together with pet owners to create a plan which includes nutrition, behavior, exercise, and all the best tips for a healthy lifestyle for your pet. Learn more about our wellness options here.
  2. SOCIALIZATION – Encourage every member of your household to spend quality time with your new furry friend, this should include playing, feeding, and grooming. Various sounds and activities in your home will also take getting used to – the doorbell, the mail carrier, the TV, the various noises from cell phones. Allow your pet time to become familiar with these sounds. Another important part of socialization is learning to be alone. You should train your pet to spend time alone in their crate or a gated area. Go for walks or spend time in another room without your pet for periods of time.
  1. TO CHIP OR NOT TO CHIP – Are you prepared if one of your pets gets lost? It’s a scary thought and more common than you may think. Veterinarians encourage pet parents to make sure your pets have identification tags and/or are microchipped. Please make sure all the information is up to date. If you’re interested in a microchip click here to request an appointment with your veterinarian.

We are also available to answer your pet ownership questions, about topics such as care, feeding, housebreaking, socialization and more. Please call us at (518) 642-1283.

Thinking of Getting a New Pet?

Consider speaking to our friends at Rutland County Humane SocietySPCA of Upstate New York and Second Chance Animal Center.

Please share this with your friends who have new furry friends at home!

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