6636 1788
Becoming a pet parent is a big responsibility, but also one of the most rewarding journeys
you can take. As you start this new chapter, it is natural to have questions about how to
give your companion the best possible care.
At Advanced Vetcare, we believe that a strong partnership between pet owners and a dedicated
pet healthcare team is the key to a happy and healthy life. To help you get started, we have
put together a general pet care guide for new pet parents.
Pet Essentials and First Vet Visit
Preparing for your new pet's arrival is a crucial first step. Taking these actions sets a strong foundation for their health and well-being from day one.
Preparing a Safe Home
Pet-proofing your home before their arrival is a key step to ensuring your new pet is safe and secure. Here are some ways to start:
- Secure Hazards: Remove small, swallowable objects and safely keep electrical cords and toxic plants. You may also use baby gates to restrict access to off-limits areas in the house.
- Gather Essentials: Ensure you have all your pet essentials ready. These include food and water bowls, a collar, a leash, an ID tag, a comfortable bed or crate and a variety of toys.
- Create a Comfort Zone: Designate a specific, quiet area for your pet to sleep and relax. This private space will help them feel secure and adjust to their new surroundings more easily.
Choosing the Right Diet
A great start to a lifetime of health begins with proper nutrition. Here is what you need to know about feeding your new companion:
- Choose the Right Food: Your pet's nutritional needs are unique and depend on their age, breed and size. Select a high-quality pet food that is specifically formulated for your pet.
- Support Growth: Puppies and kittens should eat specially formulated food until they are about a year old. Larger dog breeds, such as Great Danes, may need to stay on puppy food for up to 18 months.
- Monitor Your Pet: Always watch for signs of food intolerance, such as soft stools or excessive itching. Our veterinarians can help you make an informed decision and provide guidance on dietary changes as your pet grows.
First Vet Clinic Visit
Your pet’s first appointment should be scheduled as soon as possible after they join
your family. This initial visit to the vet clinic is vital for establishing a baseline
health assessment and discussing a preventative care plan, including vaccinations,
deworming and parasite prevention.
When you come in, please bring:
- Any existing health records, adoption papers, or breeder information.
- A list of questions you have for our veterinary team.
Preventive Care and Wellness
During your appointment, your veterinarian will provide personalised guidelines and recommendations to ensure your pet’s long-term well-being. These typically include:
Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention
A personalised vaccination schedule is crucial for protecting your pet from infectious
diseases. Your veterinarian will recommend core vaccines, such as DHPP (distemper,
hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) and rabies, which are vital for all pets. Non-core
vaccines may also be advised based on your pet's lifestyle and geographic location,
making it important to discuss their routine with your vet.
When it comes to parasites, prevention is always easier and more affordable than
treatment. Year-round protection against fleas, ticks and heartworm is essential for
safeguarding your pet from uncomfortable and potentially deadly health effects.
Spaying, Neutering and Microchipping
Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) offer significant health benefits,
including a reduced risk of certain cancers and infections. It also helps with some
behavioural issues. The ideal timing for this procedure is based on your pet's
individual needs.
In Singapore, microchipping and registering with the AVS are
mandatory for all pet dogs. For other pets like cats, large birds and rabbits, this
process is strongly encouraged. Microchipping is a simple and effective procedure that
ensures your pet can be identified and returned to you if they ever get lost.
The Annual Wellness Exam
The annual wellness exam is about more than just vaccinations; it is a critical tool for
early disease detection.
During this exam, the vet will assess your pet’s overall health, discuss their diet and
lifestyle, and perform diagnostic tests as needed. Regular check-ups help identify
subtle changes that may indicate a developing health issue, enabling early treatment to
improve your pet's quality of life. As your pet gets older, more frequent visits are
recommended to address age-related needs, such as arthritis care.
Training and Behaviour
A well-behaved pet is a joy to have in the family, and that starts with a solid foundation of training and socialisation.
Establishing a Routine
Pets thrive on consistency. Creating a predictable daily schedule for feeding, potty breaks, exercise and playtime helps reduce anxiety and builds a strong sense of security. Consistency is also key with training commands and house rules—the clearer you are, the faster your pet will learn.
When to Consult a Trainer
While many training issues can be solved with patience and consistency, some challenges are best handled with professional guidance. If you are struggling with a specific issue like separation anxiety, excessive barking or aggression, or if your pet is not responding to basic commands despite your efforts, please reach out to your vet clinic. They can offer expert advice and connect you with trusted trainers and behaviourists to develop a targeted plan for your pet.
Emergency Preparedness
Knowing the signs of a serious problem and having a plan in place can make all the difference. Contact your vet clinic right away if your pet shows any of the following signs:
- Severe vomiting or diarrhoea
- Uncontrolled bleeding or major injuries
- Difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness
- Seizures or an inability to walk
- A swollen abdomen
- Difficulty urinating or defecating
At Advanced Vetcare, we are here for your pet around the clock. We offer 24-hour
veterinary care, from routine wellness checks and preventive care to specialised surgery
and advanced diagnostics.
Whether you need immediate assistance in an emergency or are simply looking for a
comprehensive care plan, our team is dedicated to providing personalised, effective
treatments for pets of all kinds. Contact us at 6636 1788 anytime you need help.
