Tips for Dogs and Puppies

General Information

We would like to see you and your puppy get off to a good start. The first year of a pet's life is very intense from a preventative health standpoint, and the following recommendations are made to ensure that your puppy has as few problems as possible.

Physical Examination

A complete exam can detect birth defects, physical abnormalities and signs of parasites or illness.

Fecal Examination

This lab test checks not only for worms, but also for protozoan parasites which are not visible to the naked eye. Please bring a small, fresh (less than a few hours) stool sample in an airtight bag or container. Do not refrigerate.

Vaccinations

Puppies are very susceptible to viral diseases such as Parvo or Corona (often fatal diseases characterized by vomiting, diarrhea and severe dehydration); distemper (a frequently incurable disease with a variety of symptoms including pneumonia and seizures). It is extremely important that the vaccines be started early in life and be given at regular intervals until approximately 20 weeks of age. An adult dog should receive vaccinations annually throughout his/her lifetime. Rabies vaccinations are also important as well as required by law.

A puppy should receive the following: Depending on the age, breed and environment of your puppy, we will tailor a vaccination program to meet his or her needs.

• 6 - 9 weeks Distemper and Parvo
• 9 -12 weeks Distemper and Parvo (Corona optional)
• 12 – 15 weeks Distemper and Parvo (Corona optional)
• 16 weeks Distemper, Parvo, and Rabies (Corona optional)
• Spay or Neuter (5 – 6 months or older)

Overpopulation

Pet overpopulation in Maricopa County and nationwide is a serious problem. Unfortunately, thousands of homeless or unwanted animals (purebreds as well as "alley cats") are destroyed every year. Unless you are a serious full time breeder, we strongly recommend that you have all your pets spayed and neutered.

Health Benefits or Spay/Neuter

Contrary to popular opinion, it is not necessary for a dog's health or happiness to have a litter of puppies. Pregnancy, delivery and nursing the puppies are very stressful and not without potentially serious or life threatening problems.

It is scientifically proven that a female dog who is spayed at approximately six months of age has a 200 PERCENT LESS change of developing breast cancer, a far too common and serious problem in older females. Male dogs have a significant reduced incidence of prostate disease and testicular or scrotal tumors if neutered.

Training

We thoroughly recommend early crate training and obedience training to make sure your puppy is a "good citizen" that is able to share your home without destructive habits or behavior problems. Sadly, very high numbers of dogs are turned in to animal shelters because of housebreaking problems or behaviors that are unmanageable. Few of these animals ever find a permanent home. Please ask any of our staff members to explain crate training or refer you to a trainer who may be able to assist you before problems start.

Dental Care

Plaque or tartar development is the most common cause of dental disorders in pets. Periodontal disease has been estimated to affect 90% to 95% of dogs and cats over 2 years of age, and it essentially starts with accumulation of dental plaque. Studies have shown that regularly brushing your pet's teeth is the most efficient way to prevent accumulation of plaque.

Train your pet to have its mouth handled before introducing the toothbrush. Wrap nylon or silk around your finger and gently wipe the gums. Make it rewarding and fun for your pet but be cautious, as even a familiar pet may bite!

Cleaning Applicators

Any soft-bristled nylon toothbrush can be used. Your veterinarian can provide special brushes or you can use the human kind. If the gums are infected, you may use cotton swabs soaked with medicated dental preparations. You can wrap gauze around your finger and use it to wipe the gums and teeth. In cases of a severely infected mouth, you may want to change toothbrushes at least weekly to prevent re-infection of your pet's mouth. As an alternative, after using and rinsing the brush off with hot water, soak it in a mixture of chlorine solution prepared by adding 2 drops of household liquid bleach to one cup of warm water. Soak the brush for at least 1 minute, then allow it to air dry until the next dental session.

Brushing

Brushing action should be directed at the gum line at the base of the teeth. Be gentle and offer a treat or praise at the end of the session. Once daily brushing is adequate.

Dentifrices

Do not use baking soda or salt to brush your pet's teeth. Your pet will swallow them and the added sodium could be harmful, especially if your pet has an existing cardiovascular condition. Several animal dental preparations are available through your veterinarian. These will help you do the best job with the least effort. Some of these include CET, Gel-Tin, Home Care Gel, Maxi guard Gel, Nolvadent, and Peridex solution.

Recommendations

If your pet already has tartar accumulated on its teeth, an initial professional dental cleaning is often essential before starting a routine, home dental cleaning program.

If you are unable to clean your pet's teeth, the following chewing items will help reduce plaque: Nylafloss, Cheweez, CET chews, and others. When giving chews, you should always supervise your pet to make sure they don't try to swallow something that is too big and could get caught in the throat or cause digestion problems. Some dental treats are more easily digested than others. Your veterinarian or veterinary staff can recommend a product for your pet's individual needs.

Both home and regular professional care are required for the most successful dental program.