Welcome to pet parenthood!
That first year sets the foundation for lifelong health. Use this Calgary-specific checklist to stay on track.
1) Vet visits & vaccine schedule
- Initial visit (6–8 weeks): Full exam, parasite screen, personalized vaccine plan.
- Boosters: Typically every 3–4 weeks until ~16 weeks (your vet will customize).
- Core vaccines: Distemper/Parvo (dogs), FVRCP (cats), and rabies for both.
- Lifestyle vaccines: Bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, feline leukemia—based on risk.
2) Parasite prevention
- Deworming: At the first visits, then as recommended.
- Preventives: Year-round or seasonal protection depending on exposure. Ask us about safe products for young pets.
3) Nutrition for growth
- Species- and life-stage-appropriate diets (puppy/kitten formulas).
- Scheduled feedings to support steady growth and training.
- Avoid rapid weight gain: It can stress joints—especially in large-breed puppies.
- Got questions? Book a nutrition consult with our team.
4) Socialization & training
- Positive exposure to people, sounds, car rides, vet visits.
- Puppy classes after initial vaccines; use reward-based methods.
- Litter training/enrichment for kittens to build confidence and reduce stress.
5) Spay/neuter timing
- General guidance falls between 5–12 months depending on breed, size and behavior. We’ll discuss timing that best balances health, growth plates and lifestyle.
6) Dental habits from day one
- Tooth-brushing routine (pet-safe toothpaste only).
- Offer dental diets/chews designed for oral health.
7) Microchipping & ID
- Microchip during a vaccine visit or at spay/neuter.
- Keep contact info up to date—Calgary weather and open spaces mean adventurous pets!
8) Preventing common first-year issues
- Chewing/biting: Redirect to appropriate toys.
- GI upsets: Introduce new foods slowly; call us if vomiting/diarrhea persists.
- Ear/skin irritation: Early checks prevent infections.
CTA:
New pup or kitten in NW Calgary? Schedule your first wellness exam and vaccine plan at Sanctuary Veterinary Hospital. Call 403-295-0305 or Book Online.