puppy Care

Premature puppies may suffer more from medical issues as their immune system is not fully mature and may be more susceptible to certain health issues. Puppies that have not had adequate medical care prior to adoption may have pre-existing conditions that need to be addressed. At Central Valley Animal Hospital, our puppy exam will ensure that your new companion will be on their way to growing up healthy and strong.

YOUR PUPPY’S FIRST VISIT

On your first visit with us, please bring the health information provided by the seller or shelter, which should include a previous history of vaccines and deworming and a fresh stool sample. Please also bring your puppy on a leash or dog carrier.

We will perform a comprehensive examination during the visit and check for internal and external parasites. During their first year of life, puppies need a series of vaccinations to protect them from many dangerous (but preventable) diseases, and we will develop a vaccination plan specifically for your puppy.

We will discuss any questions you may have concerning care for your pet, including diet and nutrition, behavioral issues, integrating the new puppy into your home, and house training.

Your puppy’s first exam will include:

A comprehensive physical exam
Intestinal parasite screening
Intestinal parasite deworming (if necessary)
Development of a vaccination program based on your puppy’s lifestyle
Heartworm prevention
Recommendations for controlling and preventing external parasites such as fleas and ticks
Behavior and housetraining recommendations
Nutritional counseling

a person holding a puppy on her shoulder

VACCINES AND YOUR PUPPY

At Central Valley Animal Hospital, we prioritize the health and well-being of every puppy entrusted to our care. We firmly believe in tailoring vaccine protocols for each puppy to provide optimal protection against potential diseases they may encounter. By assessing factors such as the puppy’s age, breed, lifestyle, and environmental exposure, we can develop a customized vaccination plan designed to bolster their immune system against specific threats.

We aim to shield puppies from illnesses they may be susceptible to through timely vaccinations, ensuring they can grow and thrive in a safe and protected environment. Our commitment to personalized vaccine protocols reflects our dedication to providing comprehensive care and maximizing the well-being of every puppy under our supervision.

SIGNS THAT YOUR PUPPY NEEDS IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION

Please be alert to the following symptoms, which may be signs that your puppy needs immediate care:

Respiratory problems (persistent coughing, shortness of breath, labored breathing, shallow breathing, or excessively rapid or slow breathing)
Signs of pain (panting, labored breathing, increased body temperature, lethargy, hiding, restlessness, loss of appetite, reacting aggressively when touched or approached, crying)
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
A wound or laceration that’s open and bleeding
Animal bites
Allergic reactions or swelling around the face, hives, or severe itching
An eye injury, no matter how mild
Seizure, fainting, or collapse, difficulty standing or getting up, blank stare, disorientation
Exposure to extreme cold or heat, even if the dog seems to have recovered
Trauma such as getting hit by a vehicle or falling, even if the dog does not appear to have been physically harmed
Suspected poisoning, including ingestion of antifreeze, rodent, or snail bait