Healthcare, Vaccinations & Microchipping

Healthcare & Vaccinations

Healthcare: As a pet owner, it’s easy to get lost in the joy and excitement of bringing a new furry friend into your life. The exuberance of a playful puppy or kitten can be so infectious that it’s tempting to forget the important responsibility that comes with pet ownership—providing proper healthcare. Just like humans, young pets require regular medical attention to ensure they grow up healthy and happy. We’ll explore why healthcare is crucial for young pets and how it contributes to their overall well-being.

Preventative Care: Much like vaccinations for human infants, young pets need their own series of vaccinations to protect them from diseases and infections. These vaccinations are vital for building their immune system and preventing potentially life-threatening illnesses. Our vets can create a tailored vaccination schedule to ensure your pet is protected from common diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and feline aids.

Early detection of health issues: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health issues. Many health problems in pets are easier to treat when caught in their early stages. Our vets can identify issues such as dental problems, skin conditions, or musculoskeletal disorders before they become severe, improving the quality of life for your pet.

Dental health: Dental care is often overlooked, but it’s a critical aspect of your pet’s overall health. Young pets can develop dental problems that may not be immediately apparent, but over time, they can lead to pain and discomfort. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can prevent issues and ensure your pet’s teeth and gums stay healthy.

Nutrition & diet: Young pets have specific nutritional requirements that vary by breed and age. Our vets can help you determine the right diet to ensure your pet receives the essential nutrients they need to grow and develop properly. Proper nutrition is essential for bone and muscle development, as well as overall health.

Parasite prevention: Young pets are particularly vulnerable to parasites like fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. These parasites can not only cause discomfort but also transmit diseases. Our vets can recommend safe and effective parasite prevention measures to keep your pet free from these pests.

Spaying & neutering: Spaying and neutering are important for controlling the pet population and preventing unwanted litters. These procedures also have numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers and eliminating certain behavioural problems. There are different requirements for certain breeds and larger dogs. Our vets will advise you when is the safest time to desex your pet.

Vaccinations: Pet healthcare and vaccinations are the cornerstones of responsible pet ownership. At our clinic, we understand the vital role that vaccinations play in safeguarding the health of your cherished pets. These preventive measures are designed to protect your furry friends from a range of potentially life-threatening diseases. By staying up-to-date with vaccinations, you not only provide your pets with a safety net against infectious diseases but also contribute to the overall health and well-being of your community’s animal population. 

Our experienced veterinary team takes a personalised approach, tailoring vaccination plans to your pet’s specific needs, lifestyle, and risk factors. We are dedicated to ensuring that your pets receive the best protection available, ensuring a longer, happier, and healthier life for your beloved companions. Prioritising vaccinations is a crucial step in keeping your pets safe, and it’s our privilege to guide you in providing the best care for your furry family members. Your vet will discuss and create a vaccination plan with you that best suits your pets needs.

Microchipping

The simple act of microchipping your pet provides peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken an essential step in safeguarding their future. Unlike collars and tags, microchips offer permanent identification that cannot be lost or removed. They’re a small, rice-sized implant placed under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades, and contain a unique ID number that’s linked to your contact information. 

Countless pets are separated from their families every year. Microchipping is an effective way to improve the chances of reuniting with your pet in case they go missing! Rescues and veterinary clinics routinely scan lost pets, allowing for a quick and hassle-free reunion.

At the Vets recommends registering all microchips with the NZCAR – a national database that is accessible by yourself, to all vet clinics & rescue organisations. NZCAR registration is different to the council microchip database which can only be accessed by CCC. Dogs are legally required to be microchipped & registered by the age of 3 months. Cats in certain parts of Christchurch are also legally required to be microchipped.

It’s not just cats and dogs that we advise to microchip, rabbits are just as important! When rabbits are lost, they face countless dangers in the wild. Predators, traffic, and harsh weather can pose severe threats to their well-being. By microchipping your rabbit, you significantly reduce the risks associated with a life on the run and ensure they have a better chance of being returned to the safety of their loving home.

If your pet is missing please head to https://www.animalregister.co.nz/lost-pet-advice/ and follow the steps