Wellness Care for Puppies & Kittens: Starting Off on the Right Paw

Most new parents would never think of caring for the health of their baby without help from a pediatrician. Since puppies and kittens are the babies of the pet world, it only makes sense to utilize the expertise of a skilled veterinarian. At Meriden and Wallingford Veterinarian Associates, we are qualified professionals trained and ready to handle the needs of your puppy or kitten.

What to Expect

Puppy and kitten are somewhat ambiguous terms, due to the fact that dogs and cats transition to adulthood individually, not as species or breeds. Generally speaking, your pet's first year is a time of rapid growth and many changes.

Between 6 and 8 weeks of age, puppies or kittens should receive their first checkup. Their bodies are evolving and proper nutrition is key to their growth. For this reason, we will council you on not only the proper diet and treats for your specific breed and type of pet, but also the exercise requirements to keep them happy and healthy.

An identification microchip can be implanted at any time after your puppy or kitten's first few weeks—his or her initial checkup is a great time to discuss the procedure and its benefits.

Parasite prevention is also important for your puppy or kitten. We do extensive testing for fleas and ticks, as well as for intestinal parasites and various diseases, in order to insure your pet's health and happiness. In the case of infestation or sickness, we use the least invasive treatment as possible, designed specially for your pet's needs.

The subject of pet vaccinations is one where many vets differ. This is partly due to a vaccination schedule that is in a constant state of flux. At Meriden and Wallingford Veterinary Associates, we design a schedule personalized to your pet's health and lifestyle. There are, however, several “core” vaccines most pets receive. Our schedules are based on recommendations from national vaccine authorities such as AVMA, AAHA, and AAFP.

Core vaccine schedule:

6–8 weeks of age—Distemper and parvo for dogs; feline distemper and various respiratory diseases for cats (a series of two to three will be needed for these vaccines)
12–13 weeks of age—Rabies for dogs and cats, bordatella for puppies
16 weeks—Final dose for puppy and kitten series

We proudly feature wellness care packages for these core vaccines. When purchased together, you'll save money while ensuring the preventive care necessary for your pet.

At 6 month's of age, your puppy or kitten is eligible for spaying or neutering. Unless you have aspirations of breeding your pet, we highly recommend this procedure. It helps to prevent unwanted pregnancies, aggression, marking, and it can extend the quality and length of your pet's life. If you are considering breeding your pet, let us know. We can provide some much needed advice on the subject.

For more information about puppy and kitten wellness care, or to make an appointment for your pet's checkup, contact us today.

Pet Health

Testimonials:

I have brought my cats to Dr. Hallock for over 40 years. Because of his care and expertise both of them lived to be 20 years old. The staff at Meriden & Wallingford Veterinary Associates is friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to help with any questions you may have. I highly recommend Dr. Hallock and his staff to take care of your pet.

— Pat S., Wallingford CT

Meriden and Wallingford Veterinary Associates is prompt with all appointments and the staff is very efficient in getting information from pet owners regarding their condition before the examination. The doctors and staff explain all procedures as well as treatment with medications and all pertinent side/adverse effects. Advanced procedures are performed by veterinary specialists right in the office, and staff members always contact pet owners to follow up. Everyone at Meriden and Wallingford Veterinary Associates is compassionate and caring.

— John and Debra L., Meriden CT

We are proud to be part of the Meriden & Wallingford Veterinary Associates family for the last 24 years. Dr. Hallock and his staff have always shown great compassion and treated our pets, and us, with extraordinary care and skill, offering the latest treatments available. For medical care and boarding, we highly recommend Meriden Veterinary Associates.

— Bob and Linda D., Meriden CT

Having been a client for over 13 years, our experiences with both the veterinary and kennel aspects of the MWVA staff have been outstanding! Their compassion and understanding in good times and hard have been exceptional. We could not be happier with the care our dogs have received.

— Rick and Donna B., Kensington CT

Meriden and Wallingford Veterinary Associates is our family's choice for pet care. The top-notch doctors and fully trained, compassionate staff make them a premier veterinary clinic. From medical services to boarding our pets we have always received the best care at Meriden & Wallingford Veterinary Associates.

— Rebecca H., Wallingford CT

We have entrusted the care of our basset hounds to Meriden & Wallingford Veterinary Associates for thirty-eight years. We have maintained this relationship with Dr. Hallock and his dedicated staff due to four major attributes that are hallmarks of his practice: Compassion, Care, Concern, and Competence.

— Ken and Joan G., Meriden CT

Monday:	8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday:	8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday:	8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday:	8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday:	8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday:	8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Sunday:	Closed