Puppy Care Services

Congratulations on your new puppy!  Now it’s time to get him/her off on the right foot.

We’ve compiled a checklist of things to help you prepare for a life-long friendship with your new puppy. From exams and vaccines to tips for house training, our veterinarians can help coach you along your journey as a new pet owner.

What Does My New Puppy Need?

• Thorough exams by your vet until they are 16 weeks of age
• Vaccine every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks of age
• Fecal testing to determine if they have intestinal parasites that need treated
• Started on heartworm and intestinal parasite prevention
• Started on a high quality flea and tick prevention from your vet
• Spayed or Neutered (usually around 6 months of age)
• Puppy class using positive reinforcement (treats)
  • Early socialization is crucial to creating a happy, well adjusted, well behaved dog
• Housetraining
  • Go outside with your puppy and take him to the same spot each time
  • As soon as your puppy goes potty say “good boy or girl” and give a treat
  • Do not wait and give the treat once you are inside
  • If you catch your puppy going potty inside, make a noise to interrupt the behavior and take the puppy right outside.  It is best if the noise is not associated with you so the puppy does not learn to hide from you and pee.
• Crate training
  • Puppies must be confined if they are not supervised to avoid eating things they shouldn’t!
  • You can feed your puppy in the crate with the door open so she gets used to it.
  • Give your puppy treats in the crate to create a “happy place”
  • Allow your puppy to rest in the crate even when you are home. This is similar to a child taking a nap in their crib.
  • Do not put blankets or toys in the crate that your puppy could chew and ingest
• Early preventive care
  • Nail trims
  • Bathing
  • Ear cleaning,
  • Tooth brushing
  • Hair combing
  • Wiping paws
  • Get the puppy used to all the things he will need to have done as an adult. Make these things fun and include treats so the puppy loves to do them!
• Exercise – “A tired dog is a good dog” holds a lot of truth
• A high quality puppy food

Call 330-904-2129 or contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarah Ford.