1. Tips for Keeping Your New Puppy Healthy and Happy

Bringing a new puppy home can be an exciting process, but there are several things you must do as a new pet parent to keep your puppy healthy. Our team at Northern Veterinary Associates in Ishpeming, MI, is here to share some vital tips for new pet parents on keeping their puppies healthy and happy.

Puppy-Proof Your Home

Your home is full of wonder for your new furry friend, but your home can also contain many dangers. Puppy-proofing your home and keeping these dangers out of reach is vital for your new puppy’s health and safety. These dangers include chemicals, choking hazards, wires, cords on your blinds, and toxic foods.

You must remember that your puppy is lower to the ground than you are, so crawling around to see if there are any potentially dangerous items on the ground is vital. You should also move shoes or items your puppy can chew on to a safe space.

Start Your Puppy Off Healthy

Choose a veterinarian for your puppy and schedule routine care exams and vaccinations as soon as possible. Vaccinations help protect your puppy from diseases that can cause significant health issues. Your veterinarian will provide these vaccinations as needed at routine care exams, so be sure to keep up with your appointments. 

Begin Training as Soon as Possible

Training your puppy as soon as possible can help ensure it knows where to go potty, where it should sleep and lounge, and what behaviors are acceptable. Tackling these issues early on can prevent several issues in the future.

Choose the Best Food

Choosing the right dog food can be challenging, but proper nutrition is critical to your puppy’s health. Talk with your veterinarian to determine which dog food best suits your puppy’s needs.

Provide Stimulation

Puppies need mental and physical stimulation. Play with your puppy as often as you can, and provide stimulating toys for when you cannot. Your veterinarian can also recommend beneficial and safe toys for your puppy.

Schedule an Appointment With Your Ishpeming, MI, Veterinarian Today

Knowing what to do when you get a new puppy is vital for keeping your new pup healthy and happy in the future, so contact Northern Veterinary Associates in Ishpeming, MI, to learn more today. Call us and schedule an appointment today at (906) 485-6145. We can help your puppy live a long, healthy life with our routine care and wellness exams.