Puppy & Kitten Wellness in Ames

Bringing a new kitten or puppy home is an exciting time for every family. Much like when a new human infant comes into the world and needs extra care and attention, new animals need additional visits to the veterinarian to ensure they (and your whole family) stay safe and healthy.

6-16 WEEKS

Depending on breed, size, and other factors, most puppies and kittens will start various vaccinations, including the distemper/parvovirus combo. This is the first of a series of vaccinations (leptospirosis, lyme disease, parainfluenza, bordetella) which will take place every 3-4 weeks until the animal is around 16 weeks old. Fecal testing will also be done (a small sample is all we need from your pet) to evaluate for parasites harming your animal or infiltrating your home.

16 WEEKS

Around this age, your pet is old enough for the rabies vaccine, which is required by city and state ordinance. Depending on lifestyle (frequent time outdoors or in the woods, lots of socialization with other animals) there may be other vaccinations or preventative recommendations for your pet.

6 MONTHS

As puppies and kittens become dogs and cats, they are old enough to be spayed or neutered.

Want help training your puppy?

Socialization for your pet will determine their temperament and tendencies as they get older. There are some bad habits that can form (jumping, barking, biting) if not addressed early on. As a social species, dogs benefit from time around other dogs, and it is important to give them this time for their own development (and to help make it easier to take them out as they grow).