At Oak Ridge Animal Hospital, we know that having a new puppy or kitten can be an exciting and overwhelming time. To ensure that your new family member lives a long and healthy life, it is critical to make sure it receives proper veterinary care from the start. The staff at our animal hospital in Greensboro will help guide you so that you have the necessary tools to care for your puppy or kitten throughout its life.

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What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Typically, we advise that you bring your new puppy or kitten into our office around eight weeks old. To prepare for your first veterinarian appointment with your new pet, it is crucial to gather and bring in any paperwork concerning your pet. Any relevant records about your pet’s medical history should be incorporated into your vet’s documentation for your pet.

The first part of the visit with your vet will include a thorough examination of your pet. The veterinarian will be checking the eyes, ears, teeth, and skin for any abnormalities. The vet will also listen to the heart and lungs to check for any murmurs, irregular heartbeat, or any issues with the lungs.

During the initial exam, your puppy or kitten will be tested for parasites, and if the test is positive, we will provide medication for deworming. Finally, you will have the opportunity to ask the veterinarian any questions you have about your puppy or kitten. We will also discuss any behavioral concerns you may have.

Vaccinations for Puppies and Kittens

Both puppies and kittens receive their first round of shots at around nine weeks old; however, the vaccines are not the same. Kittens are administered a series of three shots that protect against rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.

Puppies are administered a series of shots to protect them from Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. We also recommend three additional shots for puppies, which are Bordetella, Lyme, and Leptospirosis. Those shots are given around the 16-21 week mark.

Spaying & Neutering

At your first appointment, we will also answer any questions you may have about spaying or neutering. At Oak Ridge Animal Hospital in Greensboro, we encourage pet owners to spay or neuter their pets. Not only does it prevent unwanted litters, but it has additional health benefits. For example, for females, it reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, and for males, it can reduce the risk of testicular cancer.