Whether you are getting your first pet or adding to your family of existing pets, getting a new puppy or kitten is an exciting time. However, the first few months of a new dog or cat's life set the premise for a lifetime of good health, which is why it is important that you learn proper puppy and kitten care as soon as you bring your new pet home.

One of the first things you should do after you get your new pet is schedule an appointment with a veterinarian. If you live in or around the North Miami Beach area, Dr. Williams is experienced in puppy and kitten wellness and can help ensure that your pet is healthy and protected against anything that could present a health threat to your dog or cat in the future.

The Importance of Pet Vaccinations

Other vaccines are optional, and our animal clinic staff can advise you on which ones are necessary for your pet. These include the canine influenza and bordetella vaccine. These types of vaccines are recommended only to pets considered high risk for developing the diseases.

Pet Dental Care is Essential for Dogs and Cats

“Doggie breath” while referred to jokingly by some pet owners is not a joke for beloved pets. This problem and other oral problems such as plaque and tarter can pose serious threats to the health of your animal. Oral disease is common among dogs and if symptoms such as bad breath are dismissed then it can lead to bacteria build-up and infection that may eventually spread to your dog’s internal organs and turn into something life threatening. Our North Miami Beach veterinarian will teach you how to identify and prevent dental problems in your pet at home so that you know when to bring them in for medical attention.

Our animal hospital in North Miami Beach offers a variety of services for your cats and dogs including pet dental services. We also provide orthopedic surgery, pet senior care and standard services such as pet vaccinations and spay and neuter procedures. Our highly trained veterinary staff is ready to care for your beloved pets. We believe in the importance of prevention so that your pets stay health and live a long happy life. Call our office today to take advantage of our veterinary services for all of your puppy and kitten care needs.

Common Dog Vaccinations

At Arch Creek Animal Clinic, we administer two primary categories of vaccines for dogs — core and non-core. The core vaccines are the ones recommended for most dogs. These consist of parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis, and rabies. Most states require you to have your dog vaccinated against rabies. Some require yearly immunizations; others have an every three year requirement. Whether your dog should get any non-core pet vaccinations depends on his or her risk of exposure. Common non-core vaccines include Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira bacteria.

Common Cat Vaccinations

Kitties, like puppies, are especially susceptible to infectious diseases. Our veterinarian recommends that kittens get their first vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks of age.