Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is one of life’s most exciting moments. Those little paws, big eyes, and endless energy quickly become part of the family. Young pets need extra care and attention to ensure they grow up healthy and happy. At The Pets Place Animal Hospital, we’re here to help pet parents in Riverside, CA, and the surrounding areas navigate this crucial stage of life with expert veterinary care and personalized guidance.

Building a Strong Foundation for Health

Your puppy or kitten’s first few months set the stage for a lifetime of wellness. Regular veterinary visits are key to monitoring their growth, detecting potential health concerns early, and keeping them protected from common illnesses.

Vaccinations and Preventative Care

Riverside is home to a variety of parks, hiking trails, and pet-friendly spots, which means your furry friend will likely come into contact with other animals. That’s why vaccinations are critical. Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccines starting as early as six weeks old to protect against diseases like:

•          Puppies: Parvovirus, distemper, rabies, and Bordetella (kennel cough)

•          Kittens: Feline leukemia, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies

Our team follows a tailored vaccination schedule based on your pet’s lifestyle, ensuring they receive the right protection at the right time.

Parasite Prevention

Even in sunny Southern California, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites are a year-round concern. Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable, and since parasites can spread to humans, keeping your pet protected is essential for the whole family’s health. We recommend starting flea and tick preventatives early, along with routine deworming.

Nutrition

Feeding your puppy or kitten the right diet makes all the difference in their development. High-quality food formulated for their specific life stage supports proper growth, a strong immune system, and overall vitality. We’re happy to provide recommendations based on your pet’s breed, size, and specific needs.

For growing pets in Riverside, hydration is also key—especially during our hot summers. Always provide fresh water, and consider adding moisture-rich foods like wet food or fresh-cooked proteins to their diet.

Socialization and Training

Early socialization plays a major role in shaping your pet’s behavior. Exposing them to different people, places, and other animals helps them grow into confident, well-mannered companions.

In Riverside, we’re lucky to have pet-friendly parks and neighborhoods where puppies and kittens can experience new sights and sounds. Gradual introductions to new experiences—like car rides, vet visits, and gentle handling—can prevent fear and anxiety as they grow. For puppies, basic obedience training (starting with simple commands like “sit” and “stay”) lays the groundwork for good behavior throughout life.

The Importance of Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering not only prevent unwanted litters but also offer significant health benefits. These procedures can reduce the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues, such as aggression and roaming. Our team can help determine the best timing for your pet based on their breed and size.

Routine Vet Visits: A Lifelong Commitment

Your pet’s first year is filled with important milestones, but wellness care doesn’t stop after kittenhood or puppyhood. Regular checkups, dental care, and ongoing preventive treatments ensure your pet stays healthy well into adulthood.

Schedule Your Puppy or Kitten’s First Visit Today

At The Pets Place Animal Hospital, we love seeing Riverside’s pets grow from playful puppies and kittens into cherished lifelong companions. Whether it’s their first visit or their annual wellness exam, we’re here to provide expert care with a personal touch.

If you’ve recently welcomed a new furry family member, let’s start them off on the right paw. Contact The Pets Place Animal Hospital to schedule a wellness exam at our office in Riverside, California, or call (951) 684-2181 today.