Book the first visit early
An early first visit gives us a baseline for your pet’s health and gets preventive care started on the right schedule. Bring any paperwork you received from the breeder, shelter, or rescue — it often lists vaccines or deworming already given, which changes what your pet needs next. Our new client page covers what to bring and what to expect.
The vaccine series
Puppies and kittens don’t get their vaccines in a single visit. Protection is built up through a series of visits across their first months, spaced so a developing immune system responds properly. The exact schedule depends on your pet’s age, species, and lifestyle, and your veterinarian will map it out at the first visit. Delays or missed visits in the series can leave gaps in protection, so it’s worth sticking to the plan you’re given.
Parasite prevention
Young animals very commonly carry intestinal parasites, often from birth — which is why deworming and fecal testing start early. Heartworm, flea, and tick prevention also begin during the first year. What’s appropriate, and when, depends on your pet; we’ll recommend a plan at your visits.
Spay and neuter
Whether and when to spay or neuter is a conversation rather than a fixed date. The right timing depends on your pet’s species, breed, expected adult size, and your own situation, and the recommendation genuinely differs from one animal to the next. We’ll talk it through with you and help you decide what fits your pet.
Food and growth
Puppies and kittens need food formulated for growth rather than adult maintenance. Follow feeding guidance for their expected adult size, and resist the urge to overfeed — growing too quickly carries its own risks, particularly for large-breed puppies. We can help you sort through the options at a visit.
Microchipping and identification
A collar and tag can come off; a microchip is permanent identification that stays with your pet. Microchipping is quick and is often done at a routine visit, or at the same time as a spay or neuter. Registering the chip and keeping your contact details current is what actually makes it work.
What to plan for during the first year
The first year involves more veterinary care than any year that follows. Planning around these categories makes it easier to keep everything on schedule.
- A series of wellness visits across the first months
- The vaccine series
- Parasite testing, deworming, and ongoing prevention
- Spay or neuter, if and when you decide on it
- Microchipping and identification
- Growth-appropriate food
- Supplies — carrier or leash, crate, bedding, grooming basics
Socialization and training
The early months are when puppies and kittens form lasting impressions of people, other animals, handling, and new places. Positive, low-stress exposure during this window pays off for the rest of their life. That includes getting them used to being handled — paws, ears, mouth — which makes vet visits and home care far easier for years afterward.