Puppy and Kitten Care
You brought home a new puppy or kitten.
Comprehensive Veterinary Care Throughout the First Year
Your puppy or kitten’s first year can set them on the path of lifelong health. Dr. Walia recommends starting with an initial wellness exam to check for any early health concerns and set a tailored care plan. These exams monitor growth and identify any congenital conditions. Plus, an early vet visit offers valuable time to answer your questions as a pet parent.
There will be many components to your young pet’s care through their first year of life. Vaccinations protect your puppy or kitten from serious and preventable diseases. Microchipping your pet provides peace of mind in case they ever become lost. A microchip can easily be implanted during a regular appointment or during a spay or neuter for a pain-free process. When the time is right, we also discuss spaying or neutering your pet, a responsible choice that supports their health.
Not sure what to feed your puppy or kitten? Our staff can offer trusted advice on nutrition, including maintenance food options conveniently available right here in our clinic. With Dr. Walia’s guidance, you will feel confident in giving your new puppy or kitten informed care.
What Will Be My Young Pet’s Vaccine Schedule?
Vaccination schedules are carefully put together to boost your pet’s immunity when they need it most. Puppies and kittens typically begin their vaccinations at around 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters given every few weeks until they’re about 16-18 weeks old. There are certain vaccinations given to all pets, while Dr. Walia may recommend additional vaccines based on the lifestyle of your puppy or kitten to provide comprehensive protection.
Keeping up with the recommended schedule for puppy vaccines or kitten vaccinations ensures that your pet develops strong, lasting immunity. During your vet visits, our staff will keep you informed of upcoming boosters and next steps so that your puppy or kitten stays protected through every stage of growth. If you need to reschedule your pet’s booster visits, please make sure to call us right away to keep your young companion on track.
Deworming in Puppies and Kittens
Young pets are particularly vulnerable to internal parasites like roundworms and hookworms, which can impact their health and development. Deworming is a part of veterinary care in the first few months of a puppy or kitten’s life, and Dr. Walia follows a deworming protocol to help eliminate these common parasites safely.
As your puppy or kitten grows, we will transition them onto a full parasite prevention plan. While they may be too young for certain preventatives at first, we will let you know to begin as soon as they reach the appropriate age. Parasite prevention protects against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and more, keeping your young pet healthy and comfortable year-round.
Puppy and Kitten Care in Tacoma, WA
At Westgate Animal Hospital, we understand the joy and responsibility that comes with raising a puppy or kitten. Dr. Walia and our staff bring affordable vet care that supports your growing pet to Tacoma. From their first pet vaccinations to trusted nutrition guidance and parasite prevention, we’re your partners in building a healthy future for your furry friend.
Contact us today to schedule your new pet’s first visit. Call our clinic to book an appointment or check for same-day or walk-in availability.
