National Puppy Day is March 23rd—and in addition to encouraging puppy adoption from shelters and rescues, it’s also a day to create awareness about the best way to care for these pawsome friends who give us an unconditional lifetime of love.
At JBVH, we have a plan for puppy care that will make sure your new bestie gets everything he or she needs!
It’s important to get your puppy in to see us as soon as possible after adoption. This is because puppies need vaccinations and parasite testing right away—their developing immune systems mean they can become seriously ill very quickly if exposed to disease. The first step is to make an appointment, then to save you time, fill out the new patient form online.
When you arrive for your appointment, you can expect the animal-loving team at JBVH to make a fuss over your adorable new family member! Veterinary staff will then take care of some basics like weight and temperature-taking. Once the vet comes in, he or she will do a thorough visual and physical exam to ensure your pup is healthy.
Fecal testing and vaccinations are next. Puppies are commonly given a series of combo vaccinations against diseases that include canine distemper, parvo virus, and bordetella (kennel cough). Rabies vaccinations are required by law and are commonly given at 12 – 24 weeks.
At this first visit, you can also expect your vet to talk to you about the importance of flea, tick and heartworm prevention. It’s also a great time to ask questions about behavior, training, and socialization, which are key to ensuring your puppy stays safe and becomes a well-behaved family member.
We look forward to meeting your new best friend! Make an appointment online or by calling us at 425-823-8411.