Congratulations on your new addition! Whether you’ve just brought home a playful puppy or a curious kitten, the first few months of your pet’s life are critical to their development, future health, and long-term well-being. At Winslow Park Animal Hospital, we’re your partner in giving your new companion the best possible start in life.
We recommend scheduling your puppy or kitten’s first veterinary visit as soon as possible after adoption—ideally within the first few days. Our comprehensive puppy and kitten wellness program ensures your new friend starts off on the right paw.
What to Expect at Your Pet’s First Visit
Comprehensive Physical Exam
We’ll evaluate your puppy or kitten’s overall health, growth rate, and development. We’ll answer questions like “Is my pet’s growth on track?” “Are there signs of health concerns?” and “How large will my pet get?”
Vaccinations
Young pets have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to disease. Your puppy or kitten will need a series of vaccinations at monthly intervals for full protection. Puppies receive rabies, DA2PPV (distemper series), Lyme, leptospirosis, and Bordetella vaccines. Kittens receive rabies, FVRCP, and FeLV vaccines.
Intestinal Parasite Screening
It’s very common for puppies and kittens to have intestinal parasites that can make them sick and weak, and some can even infect human family members. We’ll perform fecal testing and provide treatment if needed.
Microchipping
Microchipping is one of the most important things you can do for your pet’s safety. Unlike collars that can fall off, microchips stay with your pet for life and dramatically increase the chances of reunion if your pet gets lost.
Parasite Prevention
We’ll start your puppy or kitten on flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives to protect them from these dangerous parasites. Heartworm is particularly serious—while treatment exists for dogs, it’s expensive and difficult, and there’s no approved treatment available for cats.
Nutrition and Behavior Counseling
While puppies and kittens don’t come with instruction manuals, our veterinarians will guide you through the essentials: housebreaking or litterbox training, socialization, basic training, feeding schedules, and nutrition recommendations tailored to your pet’s needs.
Building a Foundation for Lifelong Health
These early visits establish a baseline for your pet’s health and help us build a relationship with both you and your new family member. We’ll partner with you throughout your pet’s life—from these exciting puppy and kitten days through their senior years.
To schedule your puppy or kitten wellness visit at our Westport, CT veterinary hospital, call us at (203) 226-5555.