New Pets

Congratulations on the new addition to the family!

Owning a pet can be an extremely rewarding experience, but it also carries with it some responsibility. We hope this page will give you some helpful advice on how to keep your new family member healthy. If you have questions concerning any subject related to your puppy or kittens health, please do not hesitate to contact us on (07) 4928 2593 or send us an email at vets@torenbeekvetclinic.com.au.

All puppies and kittens should start their vaccination regime from 6-8 weeks of age, with follow up boosters at 12 weeks and 16 weeks. This is especially important for puppies as Parvovirus is highly contagious and prevalent in many areas including Rockhampton. Please go to our vaccinations page for more information.

Dogs and cats in Central Queensland are at risk of heartworm (a disease spread by mosquitoes) if prevention is not regularly administered as the disease is highly prevalent in our area. Heartworm protection should begin at 12 weeks of age and should be continued for life. Options are a monthly preparation by tablet or spot-on treatment or a yearly injection (dogs only) for prevention of heartworm disease.

All puppies and kittens should be treated for intestinal worms regularly. We recommend treating at the following intervals: 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks, 10 weeks, 12 weeks, then monthly till 6 months and then every 3 months for life. 

Flea and tick prevention can be started from 8 weeks of age depending on the product with both oral and topical options available. An injectable product called Bravecto Quantum is now available for pups over the age of 6 months and provides year long flea and tick prevention.

Puppies and kittens should be on a good quality puppy or kitten diet for at least 12 months. If you have a puppy be aware there are different diets depending on whether you have a small, medium or large breed dog so ensure you select the right one based on your puppy's expected size as an adult and follow the feeding guide on the bag. If you require any assistance in this area please contact the clinic and one of our friendly staff can assist you.

Considering insurance for your new pet is also recommended. The types of cover available do differ, ranging anywhere from full cover to accident/illness only cover. Taking some time to research the options can make a big difference in managing the expenses of owning a new pet and can assist when those unexpected problems arise. With GapOnly payments being accepted at our clinic, your out-of-pocket expenses a the time of the visit can be significantly reduced with pet insurance cover.

It is worthwhile looking into puppy schools or obedience groups in your local area as puppy schools provide your puppy with the opportunity to become socialised with people and other dogs which can aid in preventing behavioural issues later on. It is also a good opportunity for you to bond with your puppy and teach your puppy basic obedience. Please ensure your puppies vaccinations are current before going to any classes.

We hope these tips are helpful and please feel free to drop in or contact us if you have any more questions. We love discussing new pets with our lovely clients and are looking forward to meeting them!

Use our handy Pet Portal to add your new pet's details:

 Torenbeek Vet Clinic Pet Portal