Puppy Care
Congratulations On Your New Puppy!
At Mountain Empire Small Animal Hospital, we love new puppies and we can’t wait to meet the newest addition to your family. We want to partner with you to keep your unconditionally-loving companion, friend and new family member healthy and happy. For your puppy’s long term health, our veterinarians recommend that we examine your puppy as soon as possible to identify any potential health issues early on. We will answer all your questions about caring for your puppy, including food and nutrition questions, vaccinations, other health topics and behavioral issues.
Talk to us about your puppy’s nutritional needs and the proper food for your puppy. There are so many food choices available on the market we want you to be able to choose the right food for your puppy. Your puppy’s diet can make all the difference in his or her future health and well-being.
On Your First Visit, Please Bring With You:
- Your puppy on a leash
- All health records provided to you by the seller or shelter, such as history of vaccines or worming
- A fresh stool sample (less than 4 hours old)
The Initial Exam Will Include:
- Comprehensive physical exam
- Flea/tick prevention – we will discuss the best product for your puppy’s lifestyle.
- Heartworm prevention
- Intestinal parasite test and deworming if needed
- Discussion with you of the appropriate vaccination schedule for your puppy’s breed and anticipated lifestyle and the development of a vaccination schedule.
- Necessary vaccines or vaccine boosters
The Following Are Signs That Your Puppy Needs Immediate Care; Call If Your Puppy Is Exhibiting Any Of These Symptoms:
- Any respiratory problem: coughing, trouble breathing
- Any signs of pain: panting, labored breathing, increased body temperature, lethargy, restlessness or loss of appetite
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Any wound or laceration that’s open and bleeding, or any animal bite
- Allergic reactions, such as swelling around the face, or hives, most easily seen on the belly
- Any eye injury, no matter how mild
- Any suspected poisoning, including ingestion of antifreeze, rodent or snail bait, or human medication
- Seizure, fainting, or collapse
- Thermal stress, either too cold or too hot, even if the dog seems to have recovered
- Trauma, such as being hit by a car, even if the dog seems fine
