Laying a healthy foundation

Congratulations on the new arrival in your home. Your new puppy/kitten will require a lot of attention and care in these formative days and months. Just as in having a new child, your home needs to be puppy/kitten proof as they will explore, especially anything on their level. Additionally, your new loved one is more vulnerable during these growing months with their lack of vaccinations and parasite prevention. The best way to help your young one is to schedule a pet wellness examination.
Puppy/Kitten Wellness Examination

Typically, young pets arrive at their new home between 6 to 8 weeks of age. This is an ideal time to bring your little one in to see our veterinarians. Please bring any documentation, including shot records with you as well as a recent stool sample for your appointment.
You loved one will be examined by our veterinarians comprehensively from nose to tail to check for any congenital abnormalities or health issues. Since puppies and kittens frequently become infected (either through their mother or the environment) our team will conduct a fecal check for intestinal parasites.
Our staff will conduct an initial deworming with a followup in 2 to 3 weeks. This is to remove any roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, Giardia or coccidia that might be present.
Additionally, our staff will take this opportunity to discuss other parasitic prevention, such as fleas, ticks and heartworms. Due to the climate in the San Diego area, these preventatives are required year round.
You loved one will be examined by our veterinarians comprehensively from nose to tail to check for any congenital abnormalities or health issues. Since puppies and kittens frequently become infected (either through their mother or the environment) our team will conduct a fecal check for intestinal parasites.
Our staff will conduct an initial deworming with a followup in 2 to 3 weeks. This is to remove any roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, Giardia or coccidia that might be present.
Additionally, our staff will take this opportunity to discuss other parasitic prevention, such as fleas, ticks and heartworms. Due to the climate in the San Diego area, these preventatives are required year round.
Pet Care Counseling
Our veterinarians can assist you in any questions about pet food, house training, grooming, obedience training, pet toys, or any other topic that concerns you about your new arrival.
Vaccinations

Puppies and kittens are usually protected from infectious diseases by their mother's milk provided she has been properly vaccinated. At 6 to 8 weeks puppies should get their first vaccination and kittens should be vaccinated at 9 to 12 weeks. 12 months after their initial vaccination, both should receive a booster shot.
Spay or Neutering
Our veterinarians at Imperial Beach Pet Hospital recommend that both puppies and kittens be spayed or neutered between 4 to 6 months of age. Spaying or neutering reduces your pet's risk of certain infections and diseases including several forms of cancer. Statistically fixed pets live longer ad healthier than their counterparts.