A New Puppy – A New Member of the Family

Caring for a new puppy can be a challenge, but nothing compares to the love and affection a puppy will bring into your life. And remember, you've got a professional on your side: Your veterinarian is there to help answer questions about your puppy's health, including:

• Prevention against heartworm disease and treating and controlling roundworms and hookworms
• Vaccinations against rabies, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and other diseases
• Monthly treatment for external parasites such as fleas and ticks
• Normal puppy behavior such as chewing, playing and sleeping
   
    How should I prepare for my puppy?
   
  Just because you're ready to have a puppy in your life doesn't mean your home is ready. Here are a few helpful hints about making your house puppy-friendly:
  
• Make sure that your puppy always has access to fresh water
• Take your puppy outside often to avoid housebreaking accidents
• Give your puppy a variety of chew toys
• Create or buy a bed for your puppy
• Set up an area in your house that's specifically for your puppy
• The area should be warm and small so your puppy feels secure
• Play with your puppy regularly
   
    What can I do about heartworms, roundworms and hookworms?
   
  Heartworms, transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, can be deadly to puppies. In addition, many puppies are born with roundworms and are also extremely susceptible to hookworms, which can be transmitted through their mother's milk.

Infection by any of these worms can be dangerous. They can cause your pet to have a dull coat, vomit, diarrhea, and have a pot-bellied appearance or noticeable weight loss. Severe infections may lead to serious disease, or even death.

Ask your veterinarian about HEARTGARD® Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel), the only product that comes in a Real-Beef Chewable that treats and controls hookworms and roundworms, while preventing heartworm disease. Puppies can start taking HEARTGARD Plus as early as at six weeks of age.

HEARTGARD is well tolerated. All dogs should be tested for heartworm infection before starting a preventive program. Call us today to start your pet on Heartgard! Call now: 520-298-2961