Puppy/Kitten Wellness

Congratulations on your new family member!

Compassionate Care Animal Hospital is excited to meet your new furry friend. We recommend your puppy or kitten first be seen as early as 5-8 weeks old. If you adopt your pet from a breeder or rescue, they may have begun the immunization process in the first few weeks of life. These immunizations must be followed up with a series of booster vaccines. It is important if you purchased your puppy or kitten from a breeder or rescue that you bring along any medical records you were given at the time of purchase to help us understand what was already given so we can continue your pet’s immunization process. In the event you do not have this documentation or are unsure, we may need to start the immunizations from the beginning to ensure your pet is fully vaccinated.

Like newborn human babies, puppies and kittens are extremely vulnerable to the bacteria’s, viruses, and diseases in even the cleanest environments. It is imperative that you begin immunization once the puppy or kitten is away from its mother, usually 6 weeks of age to prevent your pet from being infected by any life threatening/altering diseases. Like mentioned above we give your pets immunizations in a specific time period spread apart, to introduce your pet’s immune system to the vaccinations. This is the safest and most effective way to vaccinate.

See the chart below for vaccination series:

Puppy Vaccination Series:

Note: Adeno Influenza/Bordetella is an intra nasal vaccine that prevents kennel cough. This vaccine is recommended if you will be exposing your pet to any daycare, boarding, dog park, or grooming facilities where kennel cough can be easily spread. You can have this vaccine administered as early as 8 weeks.

Kitten Vaccination Series:

Note: If your kitten is going to be an indoor/outdoor cat or if you already have a resident cat that has tested positive for Feline Leukemia, we recommend vaccinating your kitten against Feline Leukemia. In addition, some kittens may already have it as it can be transmitted from its mother during birth and nursing. We recommend having your kitten tested for feline leukemia as soon as 8 weeks to ensure your kitten is healthy and ready to enjoy a long life with you.

What to expect during your first puppy/kitten wellness exam

During your first exam, the doctor goes over information like parasite control and dental care for your new pet as well as diet and exercise recommendation’s. The veterinarian will answer any questions you may have and even give you helpful tips and information on how to properly care for your pet.

Lastly, at the end of your pet’s appointment, don’t forget to set up your follow up appointments with our reception team. It is always helpful to preschedule these appointments to help you stay on track and to make sure your pet is getting their vaccines on time.