Puppy & Kitten Care 

Give your new pet the best start in life.

Welcoming a new puppy or kitten is an exciting milestone, and we’re honored to be part of your pet’s journey from the very beginning. While all young pets need routine veterinary care during their first year, no two are exactly alike. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to give your furry family member a healthy and happy start in life.

What should my pet’s first year look like?

Your puppy or kitten’s first year will include a series of veterinary visits designed to support healthy growth and development. These visits typically include physical exams, vaccinations, and diagnostic testing—all essential tools that allow us to closely monitor your pet’s health as they grow.

Physical exams

A lifetime of good health begins with that very first exam. Unlike adult pets, puppies and kittens require more frequent checkups, usually 3–4 visits during the first 8–16 weeks of life. During these early appointments, your veterinarian will perform thorough physical exams, track development, and provide critical preventive care.

Vaccines

Because young immune systems are still developing, puppies and kittens need a carefully timed series of vaccinations, including boosters. Using guidelines from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), we tailor vaccine recommendations to your pet’s breed, lifestyle, and individual needs.

Diagnostic testing

Diagnostic testing plays an important role in your pet’s early care. Puppies should be tested for heartworm by 12 months of age, often sooner. Kittens should be tested for feline leukemia (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) at their first visit to ensure a healthy start.

Beyond exams, vaccines, and diagnostics, your veterinarian will also talk with you about additional services, such as spaying and neutering, to help support a long, healthy, and happy life for your new companion.

To schedule your puppy's and kitten's first exam, call us at (262) 241-4884 or request an appointment online.