Fleas
Fleas spread disease, infest humans and cause skin diseases. Eliminating fleas can be a challenge, so use only safe and effective products recommended by City Vet as many flea treatments are ineffective.
This is a brief outline of the things you need to do for and with your new puppy to help make the relationship between your family and your new puppy a success.
Neutering
All pets should be neutered unless intended for breeding. Neutering females stops them coming into season and unwanted puppies. Spaying a female dog before her first season reduces the risk of cancer by more than 50%. Testicular cancer is the second most common cancer in male dogs, for this reason City Vet recommends neutering all male dogs.
Grooming
Long coated dogs should be brushed daily. Grooming can be done at home, or by a trained groomer. Some dogs have hair growing in their ears that should be removed regularly. Check toenails, including the dewclaws, and trim them carefully as required.
Finding a Puppy
Get your puppy from a reliable source. Buy & Sell and Done Deal are popular sources for buying puppies but many advertisers are large breeding kennels with poor hygiene and low standards of animal care, so avoid these Puppy Farms. Always buy a puppy subject to veterinary inspection to be returned if it is unhealthy or unsatisfactory.
Diet
A good quality balanced puppy diet such as Hills Vet Essentials is essential to develop a strong and healthy body.
Worming
This is very important throughout your pet’s life. Use an effective treatment every 2ó3 weeks until 6 months old and then every 3 months for life.
Vaccinations
Puppies are vaccinated from 10 weeks old, any given before this must be repeated. The 7-in-1 vaccination and Canine Cough are recommended. Annual vaccinations are essential.
Microchip
Micro-chipping of all puppies before they leave their place of birth or before they reach the age of 12 weeks has been required by law since 1st September 2015.
Dental Care
Up to 90% of dogs at 3 years of age have periodontal disease. Brushing your pets teeth daily helps prevent plaque, gum disease and eventual tooth loss
Exercise
Daily exercise is essential; always keep your dog on a leash on or near roads
Pet insurance
All pet owners should consider pet health insurance
Proper Training & Socialisation
Set aside time to train your pet. If you have a puppy start basic training as soon as it arrives. If you need more advice just ask, we are always happy to help. You may also find training classes useful.
Dog Licence
You must get a dog licence from the Post Office.
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WARNING!
Don’t take on a puppy unless you want one, and don’t be pressurised by your children. Caring for a pet is an adult responsibility; do not expect children to take this on. A child rarely does it properly unless a parent is actively involved in helping the child learn the necessary skills.
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Choosing a Puppy
When choosing a puppy consider the following: adult size, breed, coat length, indoors or outside and function. Do you want a family pet, a dog to go on walks or a one to make you feel secure at home? Small dogs are better indoors, with a short coat if you are house-proud or don’t want to manage a long coat. Choosing a male or female is of lesser importance, as both should be neutered