Bringing home a new puppy is one of life’s great joys — full of tail wags, playtime, and a little chaos! At Cascade Summit Animal Hospital, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From their first puppy breath to their first vet visit, here’s everything you need to know to give your new furry family member the healthiest, happiest start in life.
First Things First: Your Puppy’s Veterinary Care
Initial Exam
Schedule your puppy’s first wellness exam as soon as possible. This allows us to check their overall health, screen for congenital issues, and start a customized care plan.
Vaccines
Your puppy will need a series of vaccines to protect against common and serious diseases. We’ll create a tailored vaccination schedule based on your puppy’s age, lifestyle, and any previous vaccines received.
Core Vaccines:
Your puppy will need a series of vaccines to protect against common and serious diseases. We’ll create a tailored vaccination schedule based on your puppy’s age, lifestyle, and any previous vaccines received.
- The core vaccine series usually includes a combination vaccine called DAPP, which protects against Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough) is recommended especially if your puppy will have exposure to other dogs in places like daycare, boarding, or training classes.
- Rabies vaccine is required by law in most areas and protects your puppy and the community from this fatal disease.
- Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through contact with contaminated water or wildlife urine. It can cause serious kidney and liver problems and can also infect people. We recommend vaccination especially for puppies that spend time outdoors or in areas with wildlife exposure.
Click here for more information on vaccinations.
Parasite Prevention
We’ll screen your puppy for internal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, and recommend a safe and effective flea and tick prevention program. Puppies are especially vulnerable to parasites, so prevention is critical. Learn more about intestinal parasites here.
Heartworm prevention is also essential! We recommend year-round prevention and will test your dog annually for heartworm disease. For more information, visit The American Heartworm Society.
Nutrition Tips: Feeding Your Puppy
Choose a high-quality puppy food specially formulated for growth and development. We recommend Hill’s, Purina, and Royal Canin puppy formulas. Ensure your puppy and dog is on a grain inclusive diet. Click here to learn more about why grain free diets are harmful.
- Puppies require more calories, protein, and fat than adult dogs—make sure to feed puppy-specific diets.
- Provide fresh water at all times.
- Avoid feeding human food, especially toxic foods such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic. Here are the top 10 toxins of 2024.
Home Prep: Setting Up for Success
- Crate & Bedding: Create a cozy, safe space for your puppy to rest and feel secure.
- Potty Training: Establish a consistent routine and designated potty area early on.
- Toys & Chew Items: Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys to soothe teething and prevent destructive behaviors.
- Puppy-Proofing: Remove toxic plants, secure electrical cords, and keep harmful items out of reach.
Socialization & Training
Handle your puppy gently and frequently to get them used to being touched, groomed, and examined. Early socialization is crucial to develop confidence and reduce fear-related behaviors later. Gradually introduce new people, other pets, and different environments.
Consider Fear Free handling techniques to reduce stress and create positive veterinary experiences.
- Fear Free Potty Training
- Fear Free Puppy Socialization Tips
- Fear Free Grooming and Handling
- Fear Free Crate Training
Dental Care
Start dental care early by getting your puppy used to having their teeth brushed. Regular brushing, dental diets, and safe chew toys help prevent periodontal disease.
VOHC Approved Dental Products for Dogs
Spay/Neuter & Microchipping
Spaying or neutering is generally recommended between 6 months of age. It helps prevent unwanted litters and reduces the risk of certain health and behavioral issues.
Microchipping provides a permanent form of identification should your puppy ever get lost. We place HomeAgain microchips that help reunite lost pets with their families.
Pet Insurance
Unexpected veterinary expenses can add up quickly, especially with a new puppy. Pet insurance helps provide peace of mind by covering a portion of your pet’s medical bills, including accidents, illnesses, and sometimes routine care.
At Cascade Summit Animal Hospital, we partner with Trupanion to offer a 30-day free trial so you can explore their coverage risk-free. We encourage you to review different options and choose the insurance plan that works best for your budget and your puppy’s needs. For independent reviews and comparisons, visit Pet Insurance Review.
If you have questions about pet insurance, our team is happy to help!
We’re Here for You
At Cascade Summit Animal Hospital, we believe in building lifelong relationships with our patients—and their people. Our team is always here to answer questions, provide guidance, and support you and your puppy as they grow together.
For additional helpful resources, visit:
Fear Free Happy Homes – New Pets: Dogs
Ready to schedule your puppy’s first appointment?
Call us at (503) 655-1722 or book online