Caring For Your New Puppy or Kitten

Physical Examinations

3-4 physical exams are recommended before 8-16 weeks of age. These early-life exams provide a baseline of health, allowing us to administer necessary vaccinations as well as monitor health for years to come.

Vaccinations

Puppies and kittens have immature immune systems, making them more vulnerable to illness and disease. We give vaccinations in a properly and carefully staged series. Each puppy and kitten is unique and we tailor recommendations to factors such as lifestyle and breed.

Diagnostics

At 6-12 months of age, puppies should be tested for Heartworm. During a kitten’s first visit, we recommend Feline Leukemia and Feline AIDS testing if not previously done.

Spay/Neuter Procedure

Spay-neuter is a minor and safe procedure that has enormous benefits. Each animal is an individual and requires a unique, clinical decision. Factors such as age, size, breed, and lifestyle are considered.

Deciding to spay or neuter your pet actually promotes longevity. In addition, you will experience less challenging and troublesome behaviors associated with sexual instinct, unwanted pregnancy, and heat periods. At Pine Bluff Animal Hospital, our veterinarians are highly trained to perform this procedure ensuring your pet is safe and comfortable from start to finish.

Microchipping

In case you and your companion are ever separated, microchips provide lifelong protection and identification. Collars and ID tags are helpful and strongly recommended, but not fool proof! It is not uncommon for collars and ID tags to fall off, get lost, or removed. While microchips do not act as a tracking device, your contact information is embedded in the microchip. Therefore, if your pet is found, you both can be reunited!

Implantation is fast, low-cost, and virtually painless! Much like a regular vaccination shot, the microchip is implanted between the shoulder blades. Often times, this is performed at the same time as other vaccinations or another procedure.