First Visit: What to Bring and Expect

Schedule your first appointment within a week of adoption. Bring any breeder/shelter records, current diet info, and your top questions (house-training, teething, socialization). Expect a nose-to-tail exam, parasite screen, vaccine plan, and nutrition guidance. Clinics that work with puppies and kittens often provide handouts and text reminders—very clutch for busy humans.

Need easy booking, directions, or messaging? Start here: https://vetplayas.com/.

Vaccine & Preventive Timeline (No Guesswork)

• Puppies: core vaccines every 3–4 weeks until ~16 weeks; Bordetella & leptospirosis as lifestyle add-ons.
• Kittens: FVRCP series through ~16 weeks; FeLV for social/outdoor cats; rabies as required.
• Parasites: monthly flea/tick control; deworming based on stool tests; heartworm prevention if travel north/inland.
• Microchipping: do it early; update contact info the same day.

Your Playas de Tijuana vet will tailor timing if you travel, join puppy classes, or visit dog parks—the goal is protection without over-vaccinating.

Nutrition: Build Habits That Age Well

Select a complete, balanced growth diet (AAFCO/WSAVA-aligned). Large-breed puppies need controlled calcium and measured portions to protect joints; kittens benefit from multiple small meals and high-quality protein. Transition foods slowly over 5–7 days to avoid tummy drama. Fresh water, stainless bowls, and scheduled feeding beats free-for-all grazing.

For brand advice and weight targets, your clinic can create a feeding chart—and adjust as your pet grows like a TikTok trend.

Socialization & Training (The Golden Window)

Weeks 8–16 are prime time. Introduce new people, sounds, surfaces, and car rides in a calm, positive way. For puppies, reward-based training (sit, stay, leave-it) + crate comfort = a confident adult. For kittens, encourage play with wand toys, scratching posts, and safe vertical spaces to reduce furniture crimes.

Ask your Playas de Tijuana vet for reputable trainers and low-risk puppy socials that respect vaccine status. Avoid high-traffic areas until your series is complete.

Spay/Neuter, Dental, and Long-Term Care

Timing depends on breed, size, and behavior. Your vet will weigh growth plates, cancer risk, and lifestyle before recommending a date. Meanwhile, start dental habits early: finger brushes, enzymatic toothpaste, and dental chews you’ll actually stick with. Learn to track weight monthly; curves, not snapshots, tell the real story.

Budgeting & Planning Ahead

Year one has the most line items—vaccines, parasite prevention, spay/neuter, and supplies. Consider wellness plans or insurance before pre-existing conditions apply. Transparent clinics offer written estimates and help prioritize essentials so your wallet doesn’t plot revenge.

Compare service menus, hours, and contact options here: https://vetplayas.com/.

Community & Cross-Border Life

Beach days are core memories, but watch heat and paw safety. Keep a lightweight travel kit with water, collapsible bowl, extra leash, poop bags, and a towel. If you cross the border, maintain printed vaccine records and ask your Playas de Tijuana vet about health certificates and parasite statements so you’re not stuck at inspection.

For quick questions or to book a visit, tap: https://vetplayas.com/.

Conclusion: Raise Them Right from Day One

Healthy habits now pay off for life. With a trusted Playas de Tijuana vet, you’ll nail the vaccine schedule, prevent parasites, build good manners, and keep teeth sparkling. Keep records tidy, show up for wellness rechecks, and stay curious. That’s how tiny chaos goblins turn into well-adjusted besties who stick around for all your sunsets.