Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is one of life’s greatest joys — full of snuggles, playtime, and unconditional love. But it’s also a time for learning, preparation, and building healthy habits that will shape your pet’s future. At Tipp City Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you every step of the way — from that first wellness check to lifelong preventative care. Here’s everything every new pet parent should know before (and after) they bring their furry friend home.
Prepare Your Home for a Safe Start
Before your puppy or kitten sets paw inside, make sure your home is pet-proofed!
- Remove hazards like loose cords, small toys, and toxic plants.
- Create a cozy space with a soft bed, food and water bowls, and age-appropriate toys.
- Plan a feeding station and litter box (for kittens) or a potty-training spot (for puppies).
This helps your new pet adjust faster and feel secure in their new environment.
Pro Tip: Consistency helps your pet feel confident and comfortable — stick to a daily routine from day one!
Schedule a Veterinary Wellness Visit
Your pet’s first veterinary visit is one of the most important milestones. At Tipp City Veterinary Hospital, we perform a full nose-to-tail wellness exam to check for any early health concerns, review vaccinations, and discuss nutrition and parasite prevention.
We’ll also help you create a customized care plan based on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle.
Services to schedule early:
- Puppy/kitten vaccinations
- Deworming & parasite prevention
- Microchipping
- Spay or neuter consultation
Choose the Right Nutrition for Your New Pet
Proper nutrition fuels your pet’s growth and supports a healthy immune system. Puppies and kittens have specific dietary needs that differ from adult pets — and choosing the right food makes all the difference.
Our veterinarians can help you select high-quality puppy or kitten food that provides balanced nutrients and fits your pet’s breed, size, and health goals.
Ask us about: weight management plans, dental health diets, and food sensitivities.
Start Good Habits Early
Training and socialization begin on day one! Early positive reinforcement helps your pet learn confidence, manners, and trust.
For puppies:
- Begin potty training, crate training, and simple commands.
- Socialize with friendly people and pets in safe environments.
For kittens:
- Encourage play and gentle handling.
- Introduce nail trims and brushing to make grooming easier later.
At Tipp City Veterinary Hospital, our team can guide you on behavioral tips and training referrals to set your pet up for long-term success.
Prioritize Preventative Care
Healthy pets are happy pets — and prevention is the key! Routine check-ups help detect potential issues early, saving time, stress, and cost later.
We recommend:
- Annual exams for ongoing wellness
- Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention year-round
- Dental cleanings to prevent gum disease
- Nutritional and weight assessments
Our compassionate team is dedicated to ensuring your pet enjoys a lifetime of health, comfort, and love.
Welcome to the Tipp City Veterinary Family
Becoming a new pet parent is exciting — and we’re here to make it rewarding, too. From first vaccines to senior care, Tipp City Veterinary Hospital offers comprehensive services designed to keep your furry family member healthy and thriving.
Call us today to schedule your new pet’s first wellness exam! Let’s start their journey to a long, happy, and healthy life — together.
