Got a new puppy?
Congratulations on the addition to your family! A new learning experience and exciting event, getting a puppy. There is a lot of information to learn, so we have listed some things you might want to keep in mind.
Puppy vaccinations
Vaccinations stimulate your dog’s immune system to produce antibodies that help protect against specific infectious diseases if exposed later in life.
When puppies are born they receive some protection from their mothers milk. As they get older they need a course of vaccinations so that they can produce their own protection.
At 8 weeks old they will get their first vaccine followed by 2 more boosters, each a month apart. These core vaccines will keep them covered for Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. They can also get vaccinated against Canine Cough during these visits.
After this primary course of vaccines they will then receive another booster 6 months later before going to triannual core vaccines and annual canine cough vaccines.
Flea treatment
Fleas can be a pain to get rid of once they enter a household and can affect us as well as our fluffy companions. Stay on top of fleas and treat your puppy monthly. We carry a wide selection of flea remedies, some of which you can use safely as early as two days of age. Inquire about recommendations from our trained staff.
Worm treatment
If left untreated, worms can seriously compromise your puppy’s health and stunt growth. We advise deworming your puppy with a broad-spectrum wormer at two, four, eight, and 12 weeks of age and then every three months for the remainder of your dog’s life.
Keep in mind that kids can contract worms and other parasite issues from their pets. After playing with any indoor animals, remind kids to wash their hands.
Feeding your puppy
A high-quality puppy food is specially formulated with the growth of puppies in mind and contains all the vitamins and minerals they need. It contains the ideal ratio of protein to carbohydrates as well as everything else required for the growth of their muscles, bones, and joints. You can switch to an adult diet when they turn 1 (unless you have a large breed dog which will be a bit older). Have a chat to our staff to find the right food for your puppy.
De-sexing your puppy
De-sexing your dog can prevent unwanted litters of puppies and benefit their long-term health. At Waikiwi Vet Services, we perform ovariohysterectomy (spay) and castration (neuter). Desexed females have a reduced risk of breast cancer and uterine infections and desexed males have a lower risk of prostate issues and a 0% chance of testicular cancer.
Registration
All dogs must be registered with the Invercargill City Council (or your local council) by the time they reach the age of three months. Please check with your local authority for specifics as the price varies.
Pet insurance
The health of pets can change suddenly. We strongly advise it so that you can quickly cover any unforeseen medical expenses that may arise. For more details, ask our receptionist.
Microchipping
A microchip is a small, rice-grain-sized implantable device that is placed under the skin. Each animal’s unique identification number is contained in the chip, which is read by a scanner (similar to a barcode reader) that is readily available at any veterinary office, pound, or SPCA. Microchipping is a quick and simple procedure that can be done during a consultation.
Your Puppy will be registered with the New Zealand Companion Animal Registry (NZCAR) as part of the microchip fee. This registry was created specifically for the 24/7 recovery of lost domestic animals anywhere in New Zealand. Ensure your details are up to date so you and your puppy can be reunited if the situation arises.
Puppy preschool
Improve the early training and socialization abilities of your puppy! In a secure setting, puppy classes teach puppies how to get along with other people and dogs.
Ask us about our next class.
Puppy-proofing your house
Puppies enjoy chewing on practically anything! Don’t let your puppy chew or swallow anything, especially bones. The majority of intestinal foreign bodies that need to be surgically removed occur in puppies under a year old.
Search your house and yard for objects that a puppy could swallow. You should keep an eye on your puppy when they are playing outside because they also enjoy chewing on skirting, furniture, and other household items.
Giving them suitable toys to chew on can help save your shoes!
Any questions about your puppy? Contact us for a chat!