Puppy & Kitten Wellness: Exams, Vaccinations & More for Your New Pet
Your lifelong journey with your new puppy or kitten begins with a simple yet crucial step —reaching out to your Beverly Hills veterinarian to schedule their very first appointment. This initial wellness exam gives you valuable insights into your new pet's overall health and paves the way for a strong, lifelong bond. It's a chance to identify any congenital issues or medical conditions that may require attention, ensuring that your companion gets the best possible start in life.
We begin with a complete physical exam, including an intestinal parasite test and a discussion of proper feeding, socialization, potty training, behavioral concerns, and disease prevention.
Vaccinations for Puppies & Kittens
Puppies, starting at about 8 weeks of age, may receive the following basic vaccines:
- Distemper / hepatitis / parainfluenza / parvovirus (DHPP) vaccine: 4 vaccinations
- LEPTO vaccine: 2 vaccinations, starting at 12 weeks
- Rabies vaccine: at 16 weeks of age
- Bordetella vaccine: if risk of exposure to other animals
- Influenza
Kittens, starting at about six weeks of age, may receive the following vaccines:
- Rhinotracheitis / calicivirus / panleukepenia (FVRCP) vaccine: 4 vaccinations
- Rabies vaccine: at 16 weeks of age
- Feline leukemia testing: at first visit
- Feline leukemia vaccine: two vaccinations
In addition to vaccines, we perform diagnostic tests and procedures as needed, including basic blood work, deworming, and health tests such as fecal exams. Parasite prevention is often initiated at the first visit and continues throughout your pet’s life.
Check out these informative articles from the experts at the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) to learn more about vaccinating your pet:
Vaccinating your dog Vaccinating your catSpaying & Neutering Pets
If you are not a breeder, we will recommend spaying or neutering once your pet has reached maturity.
We typically schedule this procedure after the six-month wellness visit. We are pleased to discuss your concerns or questions about spay or neuter surgery at any time.
Spaying renders your female dog or cat infertile through the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus under a general anesthetic. Neutering renders your male dog or cat infertile through the surgical removal of the testicles under a general anesthetic. The process of spaying or neutering is quite safe, and affords many benefits to pets and owners, such as leaving pets healthier by preventing cancer, uterine infections, prostate problems, and more; reducing or eliminating many behavioral problems, including urine marking, aggression, and roaming; and helping reduce feral and domestic pet overpopulation and extermination.
Give your new puppy or kitten the best possible start in life. To schedule a wellness visit, please call (248) 646-5655.