Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home is an exciting journey, filled with joy and, of course, a bit of chaos. As a responsible pet owner, you play a vital role in shaping your furry friend’s first year, which is crucial for their overall development. Follow our Safe Harbor Animal Hospital team’s guide to navigate this important period and ensure your puppy or kitten grows into a healthy, happy pet.

Consider the commitment of raising a puppy or kitten

Before learning the specifics of caring for a puppy or kitten, you need to understand the commitment involved in raising a pet. A pet is a lifetime commitment and a huge responsibility. Puppies and kittens require a lot of time, attention, and patience. They’re learning everything for the first time—from where to eat to where to do their business. Your role is to guide them with consistent training and plenty of love, and the habits and routines you establish now will last a lifetime. 

You must also ensure you have the financial resources for supplies, food, veterinary care, and ongoing health costs (e.g., vaccinations, and flea, tick, and heartworm prevention). Some pets may have special needs that may require additional costs, so consider the amount you can afford to spend on your pet, and whether you are willing and able to provide special veterinary care and other pet-related expenses. Needless to say, you should not make a puppy or kitten adoption decision on a whim. 

Handle your pet often 

As soon as possible, start touching your pet all over their body to get them used to being handled. Ensure they are comfortable with having their feet, ears, and mouth handled, which facilitates veterinary visits, grooming sessions, and nail clippings. You can also start teaching your pet to accept toothbrushing, to ensure they maintain good dental health.

Schedule a puppy or kitten wellness exam 

Set up your puppy or kitten for a long, healthy life with regular wellness care that starts as soon as you bring them home. Schedule a wellness visit with our Safe Harbor Animal Hospital team to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are on track, begin parasite prevention, and check for intestinal worms. Your pet will need a series of appointments to be fully protected from infectious, life-threatening diseases. During your pet’s initial appointment series, we’ll discuss diet and nutrition, behavior management, training needs, grooming, parasite prevention, spaying or neutering, and much more. 

Spay or neuter your puppy or kitten

Spaying or neutering your pet is a responsible decision that benefits their health and well-being. Health benefits include:

  • Spayed females — Spaying your female pet eliminates their risk for ovarian or uterine cancer, and uterine infections. In addition, the procedure, especially if performed before their first heat cycle, decreases your female pet’s mammary cancer risk.
  • Neutered males — Neutering your pet prevents testicular tumors and decreases their prostate problem risk. In addition, the procedure decreases their risk for perianal tumors and hernias. Another factor is that neutered males are less likely to roam and look for a mate, so they are less likely to be hit by a car or to fight with another male.

Socialize and train your puppy or kitten

Socialization and training are crucial during your pet’s first year. For puppies, this means exposing them to new people, animals, environments, and sounds in a positive way. Similarly, kittens benefit from gentle handling and exposure to various stimuli. Socialization helps your pet become a confident, well-adjusted adult who is comfortable in various situations. 

Feed your puppy or kitten a balanced diet 

Proper nutrition is the foundation of your pet’s health. Puppies and kittens have specific dietary needs to support their growth and development. Choose a high-quality pet food formulated for their life stage, and always provide fresh water.  Our team at Safe Harbor Animal Hospital will advise you about your puppy’s or kitten’s nutritional needs to ensure they receive the appropriate diet.

By providing the best care during your pet’s first year, you’re ensuring a foundation for a healthy, joyful life together. Enjoy each cuddle, playful moment, and new discovery because your puppy’s or kitten’s first year is a special time that you’ll always remember. When you bring home a new puppy or kitten, schedule your new furry family member’s wellness examination with our Safe Harbor Animal Hospital team.