Begin with a thorough physical examination to evaluate your pet’s basic health and to detect congenital problems that need to be managed. Most animals are born healthy, but some pets are born with heart disease, bone abnormalities, hernias, etc. Some congenital conditions are not immediately evident, so youngsters benefit by frequent visits to their veterinarian. Young pets are especially susceptible to infectious diseases until they build up immunity. Immunization is accomplished through a series of vaccines beginning at six weeks of age, completed at four to five months of age, and followed with boosters as recommended by your doctor.