Let us be the first to say congratulations on your new puppy or kitten. At Clinton Hill Animal Clinic in Brooklyn, NY, our goal is providing quality care for puppies and kittens and helping in their journey to becoming healthy and happy adult cats & dogs. To learn more about puppy and kitten care, read on.
How to Prepare for Your New Puppy or Kitten
Good puppy and kitten care starts with you! Before your new pet comes home, you should begin preparing by battening down the hatches. Just as you would babyproof your house, you'll need to remove hazards (plants, cleaners, wires, fragile items), choose a comfortable sleeping area, and have all the needed supplies. These items may include:
- Bedding
- Crate/carrier
- Puppy or kitten food
- Bowls
- Brush/comb
- Treats (for training)
- Toys
- Toothbrush/pet toothpaste
- Collar/leash
- Litterbox
- Plenty of pet friendly cleaners for accidents
If you have other pets, you may want to choose a room to house your new pet to gradually introduce it to the other pets.
The First Vet Visit
Try to schedule your new friends' initial vet visit within a short time of bringing him home. While some adopted pets have already been examined, vaccinated, and dewormed, it's important to confirm. Additionally, the vet will want a baseline for growth and development.
We may also conduct a thorough exam that includes checking for ear mites, fleas, ticks, and skin conditions that are common in young animals. We will then put you on a vaccination schedule.
The doctor may discuss proper nutrition, exercise, potty training, and spaying/neutering with you so that you can make an informed decision. You might also be given a prescription or recommendation for a flea and tick preventative.
Get Veterinary and Wellness Care from a Veterinarian Near You for Your Cats and Dogs
Welcoming a new puppy or kitten can be a joyous moment for a family. If you're in Brooklyn, NY, and need a veterinarian near you to help on that journey, we would be thrilled to support you. Call us at Clinton Hill Animal Clinic with any questions or to make an appointment. Call us at (718) 623-3999 for veterinary and wellness care from a veterinarian near you for your cats and dogs.