Congratulations for your new companion! The arrival of this little "furball" comes with many responsibilities that you'll need to take care of all of its life, and especially during its first year. Below is information that could be especially useful. During your visit, the veterinarian will be happy to answer all your questions.
Vaccination
During your first visit, the veterinarian will determine with you which diseases your animal could be exposed to, and the appropriate vaccination schedule.
For puppies, it is important that they receive the basic vaccines that give protection against infectious diseases such as distemper, coronavirus, parvovirus, and rabies.
Vaccination can begin as early as the age of 6 weeks, with a booster shot every 3 or 4 weeks until the animal reaches the age of 12 to 16 weeks.
Then, an annual exam is recommended and at that time, the veterinarian will discuss with you which vaccines your pet should receive during the year.
Don't forget to tell the veterinarian if you will be using boarding or grooming services, or training classes. The vaccine against kennel cough (bordetella) will then be necessary.
Deworming
At your first visit, a stool analysis (coprology) is recommended to identify the different intestinal parasites that your pet may have, to allow us to prescribe an appropriate treatment. Since your pet can be contaminated when it goes outside, a yearly analysis is ideal.
Routine Surgery
Comprehensive Guide to Pet Sterilization: Spaying and Neutering
Deciding whether to spay or neuter your dog is a critical aspect of responsible pet ownership. These procedures offer numerous benefits, including improved health, behavioral changes, and population control. Historically, the standard recommendation was to spay or neuter dogs at around 6 months of age. However, current debates suggest that the optimal timing may vary, particularly for large and giant breeds. This guide will help you understand the benefits, the evolving recommendations on age, and important considerations for these procedures.
The Importance of Spaying and Neutering
· Population Control
One of the primary reasons for spaying and neutering is to manage the pet population. Many dogs end up in shelters or as strays, and spaying or neutering prevents unplanned litters, reducing the number of homeless animals.
· Health Benefits
Females: Spaying eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers and prevents pyometra, a potentially life-threatening uterine infection. Depending on the age of sterilization, it may also decrease the risk of developing mammary tumors.
Males: Neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and can prevent some prostate issues.
· Behavioral Benefits
Neutering: Helps reduce territorial marking in males.
Spaying: Removes the heat cycle in females, reducing stress for both the dog and the owner.
The Evolving Recommendations on Age
Traditionally, the recommended age for spaying or neutering was around 6 months. This timing was based on balancing health benefits with minimizing the risk of unwanted litters and behavioral issues.
Recent discussions among veterinarians suggest that the standard age may not be ideal for all dogs. Specifically, for large and giant breeds, it may be beneficial to delay spaying or neutering until the dog is fully grown. This adjustment helps ensure proper skeletal development and may reduce the risk of certain health issues linked to early spaying or neutering.
Factors Influencing Timing
· Breed and Size: Smaller breeds mature faster, so early spaying or neutering might be more appropriate. For large or giant breeds, waiting until they reach full maturity (between 12-18 months around one year old) is often recommended.
· Health: Any pre-existing health conditions should be discussed with your veterinarian to determine the best timing for the procedure.
· Behavior: If your dog displays behaviors related to their intact status, such as excessive marking, earlier spaying or neutering might be considered.
Recommendation
Given the evolving recommendations and individual variations among dogs, it is crucial to discuss the optimal timing for spaying or neutering with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog's breed, size, health, and behavior.
What to Expect
Spaying :
Ovariohysterectomy: This procedure involves removing the ovaries and uterus in females. The surgery is done under general anesthesia.
Ovariectomy: This procedure involves removing only the ovaries in females. The surgery is also performed under general anesthesia.
Neutering/castration
Neutering, or castration, involves removing both testicles in males. This also requires general anesthesia.
Post-Operative Care
· Rest: Limit your dog’s activity for 10-14 days to aid recovery.
· Incision Site: Prevent your dog from licking the incision with an Elizabethan collar or medical pet shirt. Monitor for signs of infection.
· Avoid: Swimming, bathing, or running until your dog has fully healed.
Potential Risks
While complications are rare, they can include anesthetic reactions, bleeding, post-operative infections, and, in some cases, long-term health concerns such as obesity or orthopedic issues. Modern techniques have minimized these risks, and the benefits generally outweigh potential complications.
While spaying and neutering remain crucial for responsible pet ownership, the timing of these procedures is a subject of ongoing debate. Consulting with your veterinarian will help you determine the best age to spay or neuter your pet, ensuring their health and well-being while contributing to the broader effort of pet population control.
Nutrition
With numerous diet options available, selecting the best food for your pet can be challenging. Your veterinary team can play an important role in helping you select a diet that is specifically tailored to your developing dog's needs.
Puppy diets are specially formulated to support your dog’s growth, promoting strong bones and muscles, a well-developed immune system, and helps prevent obesity.
- For small and medium-sized dogs (adult weight under 23 kg), feed a puppy formula until 6-12 months of age.
- For large and giant breeds (adult weight over 23 kg), continue with a puppy formula until 18 months of age.
Puppies should be fed 2 to 4 times daily, depending on their age. Puppies under 4 months of age should eat at least 3 meals a day. Allow access to the food bowl for 20 minutes, then remove it, even if some food remains. This routine aids house training and prevents food sharing in multi-dog households. While some dogs can be allowed to "free feed," this method can lead to obesity. Most adult dogs are fed twice daily, although some pet owners prefer to offer smaller, more frequent meals.
As your dog reaches maturity, gradually (over a 2 week period) transition him or her to an adult formula. Rapid changes in diet may lead to gastrointestinal upset.
For additional information please consult these additional resources on feeding your dog:
https://www.vetetnous.com/en/tips/choosing-the-right-food-for-your-dog/
https://www.vetetnous.com/en/blogue/chat-en/shes-not-fat-shes-just-fluffy/
Heartworms
In Québec, dogs can receive heartworm protection from June to November; products are readily available and easy to administer.
If you travel abroad with your dog, plan for a longer protection according to the length of your stay. There are many products available, in different forms: topical, injectable or in tablets; talk to your veterinarian. Some products even have a combined action preventing fleas, worms, mites, ticks, etc. A screening test (blood test) must be done before prescribing the medication. This detection test is not necessary for puppies born after the month of August of the current year; these dogs have probably never come into contact with mosquitoes, which are the vector of transmission.
Fleas
Do you know that there is a simple test that you can do at home to make sure that your cat is not infested with fleas? Ask a technician for a demonstration. Several products are available for control and/or treatment. Each product works in a different way; let us help you choose the right product for your needs.
Ear Cleaning
Regular ear cleaning is crucial to prevent infections and maintain ear health. For most dogs, cleaning once or twice a month is sufficient. Dogs with ‘floppy’ ears may need weekly cleaning. Start regularly handling your dog’s ears to make cleaning easier and more comfortable for them. Use commands they know, like “sit” or “stay,” and consider having a second person help distract your dog. Reward your dog throughout the process to ensure that it is an enjoyable experience for them.
How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears:
· Prepare Materials: Use a pet-safe ear cleaner and a soft cloth or tissue. Avoid cotton swabs as they may cause injury to the ear canal and will push secretions deeper into the ear.
· Apply Cleaner: Gently hold the base of your dog’s ear, fill the ear canal with the cleaner, and massage lightly. You should hear the liquid sloshing in the ear canal.
· Let Your Dog Shake: Allow your dog to shake their head to help dislodge debris.
· Wipe Away Debris: Use a soft cloth or tissue to wipe away any secretions.
If you notice any discomfort, unusual odor, or abnormal secretions, consult your veterinarian. If cleaning seems challenging, schedule an appointment with a technician for assistance. Regular ear handling can make cleaning easier over time. For a visual guide, watch this video: Ear Cleaning Video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43Xct7r_z54
Nail Clipping
Regular nail trimming is essential to prevent discomfort and potential injuries. Here’s how to make it easier:
1. Start Young:
Begin nail trimming when your dog is young to get them accustomed to the process.
2. Stay Calm:
Your dog can sense your emotions. Choose a quiet time and use positive reinforcement. Stop if you or your dog are feeling stressed or frustrated. Seek professional guidance from your veterinary team if you are unable to cut your dog’s nails in a safe and calm manner.
3. Choose the Right Tool:
Use nail clippers suited for your dog’s size. Guillotine-style clippers are more precise, but regular clippers are often easier for beginners.
4. Avoid the Quick: Identify the quick (the live part of the nail) and trim only the dead part. The quick contains blood vessels and nerve endings and will be painful if cut. For dogs with black nails, trim gradually to avoid hitting the quick.
5. Finish with Filing:
After trimming, use a nail file to smooth any sharp edges.
6. Reward Your Dog:
Praise and treat your dog to make the experience positive.
Dental hygiene
Good dental hygiene is vital to prevent serious health issues in your dog. Tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss. Follow these steps to establish an effective dental care routine:
1. Use pet-friendly toothpaste
Before you start brushing, remember that human toothpaste can be harmful to your dog, as it may contain toxic ingredients. Always use a toothpaste made specifically for pets. Luckily, many pet-friendly toothpastes come in tasty flavors like chicken, beef, or even vanilla, which your dog will likely enjoy! Start by applying a small amount of the toothpaste to your finger and letting your dog taste it. Repeat this step over several days to help them get accustomed to both the flavor and texture. The goal is to make toothbrushing a positive experience from the start!
2. Start a new habit
Once your dog is comfortable with the taste of the toothpaste, it's time to start handling their mouth. Since it can feel odd for a dog to have someone playing around in their mouth, take it slow and be gentle. Place a little toothpaste on your finger, gently lift your dog’s lips, and apply it to their teeth. This helps them get used to the feeling of you handling their mouth. If your dog seems stressed or impatient, take a break and try again later—patience is key! Remember, frequent rewards throughout the process will keep the experience positive for your dog.
3. Introduce the toothbrush
Next, introduce the toothbrush. Begin by brushing only the canines (the large teeth in the front of the mouth), using a pet-safe toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste. Brush gently, moving up and down along the gums and teeth. Keep the session short and positive, offering praise and treats. This will help your dog associate tooth brushing with rewards. As your dog gets more comfortable, you can gradually expand to other areas of the mouth
4. It’s time for a full brushing and a new daily habit!
Now that your dog is familiar with the toothbrush, you can start brushing all of their teeth. Start with the canines again, then slowly work your way toward the back teeth. Keep the sessions gentle and relaxed, ensuring your dog is comfortable. The goal is to make this part of your daily routine, as brushing your dog's teeth every day is ideal for preventing dental issues.
Additional Care:
Dental Checkups: Schedule annual professional dental exams with your veterinarian.
Diet: Consider special dental diets and treats to help reduce plaque and tartar.
Professional dental cleaning: Professional dental cleaning is crucial for maintaining your dog’s overall health. Just like in humans, tartar and plaque buildup can lead to serious dental issues, including gum disease, tooth loss, and systemic infections affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. A thorough dental cleaning by a veterinarian removes hidden plaque and tartar, often missed with at-home brushing, and includes an examination of the teeth and gums. This preventative care not only helps keep your dog’s breath fresh but also prevents painful dental conditions and supports their long-term well-being.
According to AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) guidelines, the first dental prophylaxis (cleaning) for cats and dogs is recommended as follows:
· At 1 year of age for cats and small to medium-sized dogs.
· At 2 years of age for large breed dogs.
Frequency of Dental Prophylaxis:
· Small breed dogs (without brushing): Every 6 months
· Small breed dogs (with brushing): Annually
· Large breed dogs (without brushing): Annually
· Large breed dogs (with brushing): Every 2 years
· Cats: Annually
Regular dental care, including professional cleanings, is essential for maintaining oral health and preventing dental diseases in pets.
For a step-by-step video guide, click here: Dental Care Video.
Human Pharmacy
Caution: Human Medications Can Be Dangerous for Pets
As a pet owner, it’s important to remember that human medications can be extremely toxic to pets. What may be safe for you can have harmful or even fatal effects on your furry friends. Before administering any medication to your pet, it’s essential to get the right information and consult your veterinarian. Never play doctor with your pet’s health!
Medications meant for people, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, and even herbal supplements, often have harmful side effects when ingested by animals.
Additionally, pets can accidentally ingest human medications when they get into pill bottles or bottles left within their reach. It’s critical to pet-proof your home and keep medications stored securely to prevent these accidental poisonings.
Common Human Medications That Are Toxic to Pets
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Highly Toxic to Cats: Even a single regular-strength acetaminophen tablet can cause serious damage to a cat’s red blood cells, leading to oxygen deprivation and potentially fatal organ failure.
- In Dogs: Acetaminophen can cause liver failure and, in large doses, red blood cell damage. Smaller dogs, puppies, and older dogs are especially at risk.
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Ibuprofen (Advil), Naproxen (Aleve): Just one or two pills can be deadly. NSAIDs are known to cause stomach and intestinal ulcers, as well as kidney failure in dogs, cats, and other pets like birds and small mammals (e.g., gerbils, hamsters).
- Never give your pet any human pain relievers, even if they seem to be in pain. Always consult a vet for pet-safe alternatives.
- Antidepressants & Anti-Anxiety Medications
- While antidepressants are sometimes prescribed to pets, an overdose can cause serious neurological problems, including sedation, incoordination, tremors, seizures, and even coma.
- ADD/ADHD Medications (e.g., Amphetamines, Methylphenidate)
- Medications for attention deficit disorders, like Adderall or Ritalin, contain powerful stimulants that can have deadly consequences for pets. Even a small amount can cause life-threatening tremors, seizures, high body temperature, and heart problems.
- Beta-Blockers (e.g., Metoprolol, Propranolol)
- Used to treat heart disease and high blood pressure in both humans and pets, but overdoses can be fatal. Accidental ingestion can cause heart failure, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and acute kidney failure in pets.
Preventing Accidental Poisoning: Pet-Proof Your Home
It's essential to keep medications securely stored, out of reach of curious pets. Here are some helpful tips:
- Keep all medications in a secure, closed container and store them in a cabinet that your pet cannot access.
- Be cautious with pill bottles, especially those with childproof caps, as pets can still chew through them.
- Dispose of unused medications safely—don’t leave old pills lying around where pets might find them.
- Watch for spills or dropped pills on the floor, especially after refilling prescriptions or opening a new bottle.
If you suspect that your pet has ingested any human medication, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Call your veterinarian immediately or contact an emergency pet poison hotline.