Vaccine Protocol
6-8 weeks DAPP
10-12 weeks DAPP
12-14 weeks Rabies 1yr ( per Pennsylvania state law)
14-16 weeks DAPP w/ Leptospirosis, Lyme and Bordetella
16-18 weeks Leptospirosis/Lyme and Influenza
18-20 weeks Influenza

A fecal test is recommended at 8, 12,and 16 weeks then at their yearly wellness exam.

What to expect after your puppies vaccines:
Some puppies have no side effects at all. Some may experience mild side effects such as decreased physical exercise, or pain at the injection site. These side effects should subside in 1-2 days. More severe side effects (uncommon reactions) Vomiting/diarrhea, swelling of the muzzle/face, Hives. If any of these side effects occur, call our office as soon as you notice them.

Spay/Neuter
Females should be spayed at 6 months of age. We recommend spaying before the first heat cycle, which typically happens around 7-8 months.

Males should be neutered between 6-12 months.

Pre-Anesthetic blood work is performed 3 months to 1 week before surgery is scheduled. Any remaining deciduous teeth should be extracted at time of surgery. 

Microchipping
A microchip is a permanent ID that links your pet to you. A Home Again microchip is placed between your pets shoulder blades at time of spay/neuter.

Once your pet receives a microchip, you can apply for a lifetime license.

Brushing Your Puppy's Teeth
At home, practice opening your pet’s mouth and lift your pet’s lips on a daily basis. After they are comfortable with that sensation, start rubbing your fingers on their gums and teeth on a daily basis. We offer toothpaste specific for pets, dental treats and dental diets. Please wait until adult teeth are present before brushing. Appropriate chew toys can also help maintain your pet’s oral health, these can be found on the VOHC website ( veterinary Oral Health Council). Toys should be made from material that you can indent with your thumb nail. If the toy is too hard, your pet could be at risk for fracturing teeth.

Acceptable toys:
Kong
West Paw
Planet dog
Goughnuts

Flea/Tick and Heartworm Prevention
Credelio is an oral flea and tick prevention that is administered to your dog monthly.  Used for dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older.
Bravecto is an oral flea and tick prevention that is administered to your dog every 3 months. Used for dogs and puppies 6 months and older.
Interceptor Plus is an oral heartworm prevention that is administered to your dog monthly. This also treats and controls intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. Used for dogs and puppies 6 weeks and older.
Simparica Trio is an oral flea/tick and heartworm prevention that is administered to your dog monthly. Used for dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older.

It is important to keep your puppy on Flea/Tick and Heartworm prevention year round. We will perform a heartworm test at their first annual visit.

Grooming
Begin grooming early so your puppy gets used to being handled by you and other people (veterinarians and groomers). Using a soft bristle brush, gently stroke his back a few times; try brushing while the puppy is drowsy in your lap. To desensitize the feet for nail trimming, start by picking up one of your dog’s paws and gently hold it for a few seconds, touching their toes and nails. Gradually, try trimming a nail or two while giving treats.

Pet Insurance
Trupanion
Embrace
Nationwide
Healthy Paws
Fetch
Lemonade


Diets
Veterinary recommended diets:
Hill’s Science Diet
Purina Pro Plan
Purina One
Royal Canin
Iams/Eukanuba

Feeding instructions differ by brand and can be found on the bag.