New Puppy? First Things First

New Puppy Tips

Puppies need time to adjust to a new home and family. Setting up boundaries and putting some basic rules in place will make your pet’s transition easier for everyone. If you're a new pet owner, glean pet care tips from your Johnston veterinarian at Rush Animal Care Clinic P.C. to help you get off to a good start.

Getting Adjusted

Your puppy should have some corner in the home that he can call his own. This is where your pet will find his bed, food and water bowl and toys. Take him there as soon as you get him home. Let him explore this area so he can become accustomed to his spot. Once he’s familiar with this spot, you can introduce him to other areas of your home, one room at a time. Keeping him out of areas where he won’t be allowed will help him learn his boundaries.

Set Up a Schedule

Set up a schedule for feeding, outside time, and bed. Your pup will need help in every one of these areas. Your whole family should adhere to the schedule as much as possible so as not to confuse your pet.

Visit Your Vet

Schedule an appointment for veterinary care. A wellness exam from your Johnston veterinarian will ensure your pup is in good health. If your pup hasn’t been vaccinated, now is a good time to start. Puppies should start vaccinations at 6 weeks of age. They’ll receive a series of core vaccines every 3-4 weeks until they’re 16 weeks. These vaccines will protect him from life threatening diseases like rabies, distemper and canine parvovirus.

Make Time for Your Pup

Puppies thrive on love and attention so make time to play with your pup. If you work all week, schedule some quality time on weekends. Take pup out for daily walks, playtime, and training. Introduce your puppy to the neighbors and their pet in a supervised environment so he can learn socialization skills.

Schedule Pup’s Wellness Exam Today

To schedule veterinary care at Rush Animal Care Clinic P.C. in Johnston, call (515) 270-2240.

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Our Regular Schedule

Monday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Tuesday

7:30 am - 6:30 pm

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

7:30 am - 6:30 pm

Friday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Saturday

8:00 am - 1:00 pm

Sunday

Closed

Monday
7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am - 6:30 pm
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
7:30 am - 6:30 pm
Friday
7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sunday
Closed

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