Puppy Care Guide
Here's a handy reference for your puppy care essentials. Should your pet become unwell, please reach out to an emergency veterinary service promptly. This guide is intended solely for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
Written by Dr. Scarlett Mavor
VACCINATIONS
1st: 6-8weeks
2nd: 10 -12 weeks
3rd: 14 - 16 weeks
Adult booster: 15-16 months, repeat once a year
Vaccination protects against parvovirus, canine distemper virus, adenovirus, leptovirus and coronavirus. These diseases can be deadly and it is important your dog is vaccinated to protect them. Puppies should stay away from unvaccinated dogs and environments other dogs have been in until 2 weeks after their second vaccine to protect them.
HEARTWORM PREVENTION
Start heartworm prevention before your pup turns 14 weeks or at at the time of his third vaccination. Heartworm is a small worm transferred by mosquitos which travels through the bloodstream and damages the heart. It is very common in Fiji and can cause heart and lung disease leading to death. We use Ivomec, a liquid preventative given monthly or a yearly injection proheart. Ivomec is cheap and this is the most important prevention medication.
WORMING - INTESTINAL
Every two weeks until 12 weeks of age, then.Every month until 6 months of age, then.Every three months for life. Intestinal worms will cause diarrhoea, swollen abdomen, inability to grow and may also pass onto humans, so is important to be done regularly.
FLEAs, ticks and mange CONTROL
These bugs infect the skin and will cause itchiness and damage to the skin. Fleas and ticks are present on the outside of the skin while mange mites burrow into the skin and cant be seen. The best form of control for both is a monthly tablet, however it can be used just when itching is noticed. For cheap flea, tick and lice control, fidos spray can be used when needed. bathing with soap and water etc does not kill fleas, you need a flea specific shampoo.
NUTRITION
The best food is a puppy kibble which can be fed until 12 months old. This can be softened with water or non-dairy milk. Alternatively you can feed 80% meat dust, with some rice and vegetables, however do not add any spice or condiments, plain food is best for dogs. A small amount of dog food is recommended to ensure they are getting necessary vitamins and minerals. Best to feed puppies three times daily at first and reduce to twice at 4-6 months and once daily at 12 months. Your pup will be teething so give them something to chew on like rubber chew toys, dental treats, carrots, apple etc. (do not give bones as these can get stuck and damage your dogs guts). Ensure that fresh water is available at all times.
DESEXING
Have your pet desexed by 6 months of age or 1 month after the first heat. It is at this age that your pup will reach sexual maturity.In females the procedure involves the removal of the uterus and ovaries, in males it involves the removal of their testicles. Too many animals are surrended or living on the street due to the lack of good homes, please be responsible and do not add to this growing problem. It can also reduce the risk of cancer and infection as they get older. Desex your pet.
When to visit the vet
-Not eating for more than 1 day
-Vomiting or diarrhea
-Limping
-Wounds
-Puppy seems in pain or depressed
-Anytime you are worried, we are here to help!
