Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, joyful, and sometimes a little overwhelming. Between house training, chew toys, and learning new things, it can be hard to know if you are doing everything right. That’s where East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola comes in. Their puppy care program is designed to give your new best friend the healthiest possible start in life.
Your Puppy’s Initial Visit
Your puppy should see a veterinarian within a few days of coming home. Even if they seem perfectly healthy, this first exam is very important.
During the visit, the veterinary team will:
- Check your puppy’s weight and overall growth.
- Listen to their heart and lungs.
- Look at their eyes, ears, and teeth.
- Check for signs of parasites.
- Answer all your new puppy questions.
A stool sample is usually tested to look for intestinal worms, which are very common in puppies. Many puppies have parasites without showing obvious symptoms, so testing early helps prevent bigger problems later.
This appointment is also a great time to talk about feeding schedules, potty training, crate training, and what to expect over the next few months.
Vaccines That Protect Your Puppy
Puppies are not fully protected from disease right away. They receive some immunity from their mother, but that protection fades over time. That is why vaccines are given in a series.
Core vaccines usually protect against:
- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Adenovirus
- Rabies
Depending on your puppy’s lifestyle, they may also need vaccines for kennel cough or leptospirosis.
At East Hill Animal Hospital, your veterinarian creates a vaccine schedule based on your puppy’s age and risk factors. Staying on schedule is extremely important, especially in the first few months of life.
Protecting Against Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworms
In Pensacola’s warm climate, parasites are active year-round. That means your puppy needs protection early.
Your veterinarian will recommend:
- Heartworm prevention started as early as 6 to 8 weeks.
- Flea and tick prevention
- Deworming treatments if needed
Mosquitoes spread heartworms and can cause serious heart and lung damage. The good news is that they are almost completely preventable with monthly medication.
Proper Nutrition for Growing Puppies
Puppies grow fast, and they need the right food to support healthy bones, muscles, and organs.
Your veterinarian will help you choose:
- A high-quality puppy food
- The correct portion sizes
- A feeding schedule
Large breed puppies need special attention. Growing too quickly can lead to joint problems later in life. Regular weight checks during puppy visits help make sure growth stays on track.
Socialization and Training Tips
The first few months of life are a critical learning period for puppies. This is when they develop confidence and learn how to behave around people and other animals.
The team at East Hill Animal Hospital can guide you on:
- Positive reinforcement training
- Safe socialization with other dogs
- Preventing problem behaviors
- Managing teething and chewing
Early training builds a well-behaved, confident adult dog and makes life easier for you, too.
Spaying or Neutering Your Puppy
Spaying or neutering is an important decision. The right timing can depend on your puppy’s breed and size.
Your veterinarian will talk with you about:
- The best age for surgery
- Health benefits
- Behavior considerations
- What to expect during recovery
Every puppy is different, so having a personalized plan matters.
Microchipping for Safety
Even the most careful owners can experience a lost pet. Microchipping provides permanent identification that cannot fall off like a collar or tag.
The procedure is quick and simple, and it greatly increases the chances of being reunited if your puppy ever gets lost.
Starting Healthy Habits Early
Good habits begin in puppyhood. During visits, your veterinarian will also check your puppy’s teeth and discuss:
- Teething
- Safe chew toys
- When to start brushing teeth
Learning how to care for your puppy’s teeth early can prevent dental disease later.
A Lifelong Partnership
Puppy care is about more than shots. It is about building a strong foundation for a lifetime of health. At East Hill Animal Hospital, the team works closely with pet owners to make sure every question is answered and every concern is addressed.
If you have recently welcomed a puppy into your home, scheduling the first wellness visit is the next best step. With the right care, guidance, and preventive plan in place, your puppy can grow into a happy, healthy member of your family for years to come.