What an exciting time it is to welcome a new puppy or kitten into your home! This tiny, fluffy, bundle of love already knows how to put a smile on everyone's face.
Fun as it may be, there is also some serious health care business to take care of during your new pet's first year of life.
Your vet will develop a custom health care plan to meet your pet's specific needs during their first year, and provide you with plenty of support and guidance along the way!
Puppies should ideally have their first veterinary appointment around six weeks of age, and kittens around eight weeks.
During this initial visit, your pet will receive their very first physical exam to see if they are healthy, look for signs of congenital defects, and check for external prasites.
We will also administer deworming medications for roundworms and hookworms, and the first round of puppy or kitten vaccinations.
More About Vaccines & Prevention
Finally, for kittens, we will perform a blood test to check for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus.
Puppies and kittens should attend 3 to 4 veterinary appointments between the ages of 6 and 16 weeks. These visits allow our vets to assess your pet's overall health and to administer vaccines on schedule.
Bringing home a new puppy or kitten comes with a lot of new responsibilities.
Our experienced team of veterinarians is here to provide you with all the information and support you need to help guide your new best friend through their first year of life.
Our Kitten Packages and Puppy Packages contain everything you'll need to know about your pet’s early development, including:
Our vets will be happy to answer any questions you may have, and put any concerns or worries to rest. We want to make sure that you and your puppy or kitten have everything you need to begin a wonderful life together!
Washington Dog and Cat Hospital is accepting new patients! Our experienced vets are passionate about the health of Los Angeles companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.
Saturday Appointments Available