Congratulations on becoming a first-time pet owner! Along with the excitement and happiness that a new pet brings into the home, a new pet also comes with a huge responsibility. Whether you recently got a new puppy/kitten or adopted a pet in-need of their forever home, Cumberland Veterinary Clinic is here to help you navigate your experience as a dog or cat owner.
Veterinary Exam
Not only do we want to meet your furry family member, but it’s also important that they get to know us too! During an examination, we complete a head to tail assessment to ensure your pet is healthy. Exams are also great times to ask any questions you may have.
Vaccinations
Getting your pet started on a proper vaccination program early will help protect them from diseases. Timing vaccinations as puppies and kittens is important as the immunity their mother provided them starts to wane. We can help ensure proper scheduling of the vaccinations your pet needs.
Adult pets require vaccinations too! We will help determine the appropriate vaccinations your pet requires and the best schedule for these vaccines based on their lifestyle.
Deworming
Deworming is an important part of your pet’s preventative health care program. Intestinal parasites can occur in both cats and dogs, especially when they venture outdoors. Parasites can deprive your pet of essential nutrients and cause digestive upset. Some can also be transmissible to other animals and humans.
Our veterinarians will talk with you about your pet’s risk level for parasitism and set up a schedule for deworming that is tailored to your pet’s needs.
Spay & Neutering
Spays and neuters help to control pet overpopulation and can have other benefits including reducing the risk of developing certain health and behaviour issues. Our veterinarians can discuss the benefits and risks of spay and neuters with you, as well as determine the best time for your pet to undergo the procedure, as this often varies with breed and gender.
Microchips
A microchip is a small piece of metal that is implanted between your pet’s shoulder blades with an identification number unique to them. The ID number is linked to your information therefore if your pet is ever lost and taken to a shelter or veterinary clinic, a microchip provides the information necessary to reconnect you. Microchips are more beneficial than tattoos as they do not fade over time and can be registered internationally if you need to relocate. It is important to know that a microchip is not a GPS device and does not tell you the location of your pet. Microchip implantation is an easy procedure typically done at the time of spay or neuter, however can be done at any veterinary appointment.
External Parasite Prevention
External parasites such as ticks, fleas, lice and ear mites can be extremely uncomfortable and can cause serious skin problems. Luckily, we have many options for treatment, control, and prevention. We can help determine the best protocol for your pet depending on their lifestyle.
Note that other areas of the world can have different external parasites. Please let us know if your pet will be travelling outside of the province so we can ensure they have the appropriate preventative medications.
Nutrition
Cats and dogs have specific dietary needs based on their age, lifestyle and current state of health. Our veterinarians provide nutrition advice to ensure your pet is properly nourished.
Pet Health Insurance and/or Veterinary Savings Account
The cost of a pet is something to be considered even before adding a new member to your family. In addition to ongoing preventative care and annual check-ups, we encourage our clients to be prepared for any unexpected emergencies that may happen. We recommend looking into health insurance options such as Trupanion, Petsecure and Pets Plus Us.
What to Expect On Your First and Future Appointments
At Cumberland Veterinary Clinic, we are here to help you feel confident as a new pet owner! Our compassionate and experienced team of veterinary professionals can answer any questions you may have, as well as provide the necessary information you didn’t know you needed. We will assess the health of your pet and provide recommended treatments. From their early days to their golden years, we are here for all of your pet needs.
You can count on us to provide superior care and excellent service every single time you walk through our doors. Call 306-373-3500 to schedule an appointment and ensure your pet gets the proper care to live a long and healthy life as your right-hand companion.
Additional Important Information for Pet Owners
Below are some helpful tips for new pet owners from our blog: