| I have a new puppy/kitten. When should I visit my veterinarian? |
| Although we do not begin our vaccination protocols until 8 weeks of age, all newly adopted pets need a health exam as soon as possible. At 3 and 6 weeks of age, puppies and kittens are dewormed. Intestinal parasites are often transmitted from parent to offspring. Hookworms, whips, rounds and tapeworms are particularly common here in the Southeast. To insure proper development of your new pet and prevent the transmission of disease and parasites to adult pets already in the home or kennel, a visit to the vet as soon as possible is recommended. Periodically during the year we are vet-of-the-month for the Metro Animal Shelter. When this is the case, any pets adopted from the shelter during that month are entitled to a free health exam. The exam must be performed within three days of the adoption. Pets found to have life-threatening diseases or conditions, such as Parvovirus or heart defects, can be returned to the shelter for a refund. These cases are rare. However, the initial health exam is designed to prevent later heartbreak for the owner. Due to the selective gene pool utilized by breeders, inherited physical abnormalities are not unheard of in pure-bred pets. Before finalizing the purchase of a boxer, labrador retriever, poodle, shih tzu, pomeranian or any other animal from a breeder, the prospective owner should have his or her own veterinarian give the pet a thorough going over. Many breeders have their own veterinarians who will certify that a pet is free from medical defects. Getting a second opinion from a veterinarian YOU know and trust is prudent! Likewise, just because an animal was purchased from a reputable pet store does not mean that the animal is free from congenital abnormalities or will not be carrying disease or parasites. For peace of mind nothing can substitute for a visit to YOUR vet. |