Getting Puppies & Kittens Off to a Healthy Start!

Now that you have a wonderful new pet, it’s time to give him or her the gift of a healthy start in life. At Androscoggin Animal Hospital, we work closely with each family to ensure a positive experience for both the new pet and the family that will take care of him or her for many long and happy years to come.

We like to see new puppies or kittens at about 8 weeks of age, or whenever they first join your family. At that time, we will provide your new pet with its first full physical exam along with setting up a vaccination schedule to ensure a safe and healthy start.

We recommend that a fresh fecal sample be brought to test for worms as part of your puppy or kitten’s exam

Questions About Training?

As pet owners ourselves, we understand fully the rewards and challenges to owning a pet and we are more than happy to discuss any questions you may have about your new pet, including puppy training. If you are beginning to train your new puppy, for the best results we recommend:

• Repetition
• Consistency
• Positive reinforcement

Training new kittens to use a litter box is a fairly simple process.

• Place your litter box away from heavy traffic or noise.
• Put your kitten into the litter box after a nap or a meal.
• Praise your cat when he or she goes. If mistakes occur, pick up your kitten right away and set him or her down in the box. Never reprimand your cat while placing in the litter box since he or she will associate the litter box with being bad.

Microchips: Permanent Identification for Your Pet 

Androscoggin Animal Hospital recommends all pet owners have their pets microchipped. A microchip is a small, rice-sized implant under the skin that provides permanent and lifelong identification. It is the most effective way to reunite lost pets with their owners. Microchipping is an important way to keep your pet safe and home with you, avoiding the heartbreak of separation, loss, and danger. The insertion of a microchip is a simple, painless procedure that brings peace of mind to devoted dog and cat owners.

Give your pet a healthy start and call us today. We look forward to meeting you both!