Puppy Kitten Care

What’s Included in a Puppy/Kitten Visit

We check health today and help prevent problems later. We do a full exam, talk about diet and behavior, and build a plan that fits your pet’s age and lifestyle.

  • Full physical exam (eyes, ears, skin, heart, lungs, belly)
  • Vaccination as needed, with a simple schedule you can follow
  • Parasite screening plan and deworming discussion
  • Flea and tick prevention guidance for Murrieta
  • Microchip offer and ID plan so your pet can get home if lost
  • Personalized puppy or kitten vaccine schedule, written down for you
  • Basic training and socialization tips (potty habits, handling, calm greetings)

Why this matters: early care lowers the risk of serious illness and surprise costs.

New Pet Onboarding: What to Bring and How to Prepare

A little prep makes the visit smoother.

  • Any past records (breeder, shelter, or another vet)
  • A fresh stool sample if you have one
  • Leash and collar for puppies, and a secure carrier for kittens
  • A list of questions (food, vaccines, sleep, chewing, litter box)
  • Ask us about fasting if your pet may need a test or procedure that day

Puppy & Kitten Starter Packages

If you are looking for puppy or kitten care in Murrieta, packages are an easy way to stay on track. Exact needs can vary, but these are common options.

Puppy Starter

(Puppy Care starter package)

Starting range: about $160–$410 for a first-year starter series.

  • New puppy checkup Murrieta (full exam)
  • Core vaccine series: DHPP (dog core vaccine) plus rabies when due
  • Deworming support and parasite screening plan
  • Nutrition guidance and safe chew tips
  • Microchip optional
  • One follow-up check to review growth and questions

Kitten Starter

(Kitten wellness package)

Starting range: about $150–$350 for a first-year starter series.

  • New kitten checkup Murrieta (full exam)
  • Core vaccine series: FVRCP (cat core vaccine) plus rabies when due
  • FeLV discussion if recommended for your kitten’s lifestyle
  • Deworming support and parasite screening plan
  • Nutrition and litter box tips
  • Microchip optional
  • One follow-up check for growth and questions

Vaccine Only Walk-In

(Puppy wellness package or Kitten vaccinations in Murrieta)

Typical range: many vaccines are about $20–$35 per dose, and exam fees may be separate.

  • Quick check-in and record review
  • Puppy or kitten vaccinations in Murrieta as needed
  • Updated shot record for daycare, boarding, or travel

Vaccinations & Preventive Care

Vaccines help protect puppies and kittens from common, serious diseases. Most puppies start core vaccines around 6 to 8 weeks old and get boosters every few weeks until at least 16 weeks.

We will make a clear vaccine plan for your pet and explain it in a simple manner. So, if you are looking for kitten or puppy vaccination packages and schedules in Murrieta, we will guide you step by step.

Rabies note: The California Department of Public Health says dogs over 4 months must be vaccinated for rabies. In Riverside County, a current rabies vaccine is also part of dog licensing.

Puppy and kitten vaccine timeline

  • 6 to 8 weeks: first core vaccine (DHPP for puppies, FVRCP for kittens)
  • 10 to 12 weeks: booster visit
  • 14 to 16 weeks: booster visit
  • Around 16 weeks (4 months): rabies timing for puppies
  • After the series: we set reminders for boosters

This is also the best time to talk about parasite prevention, safe chew toys, and healthy weight.

Trusted Murrieta Veterinary Clinic

Why Do Early Vet Visits Matter?

Regular vet visits during your puppy or kitten’s first year help us monitor growth, detect any health issues early, and set a strong foundation for lifelong wellness. Establishing a relationship with your veterinarian early also helps your pet feel comfortable and stress-free at the clinic.

Trusted Murrieta Veterinary Clinic

Why Choose Us for Puppy & Kitten Care in Murrieta?

Here is what pet parents appreciate.

  • Local clinic on Murrieta Hot Springs Rd with extended hours
  • Experienced veterinary team, including Dr. Avtar Gill
  • Same-day appointments may be available
  • Walk-ins welcome for many needs, including vaccine visits
  • Clear, written schedules and easy-to-understand pricing ranges
  • We take time to answer questions at the first visit and follow-ups

Ready to book your kitten or puppy exam in Murrieta? Schedule a new pet wellness exam today and let us help your puppy or kitten get a healthy start.

Puppy & Kitten Care FAQ

At Hot Springs Animal Hospital in Murrieta, CA, we know how important it is to provide your new puppy or kitten with the proper care and attention during their early stages of life. Our veterinarians are dedicated to helping your new pet grow up healthy and happy. Whether you need a puppy exam, kitten exam, or pet vaccinations, we’re here to answer all your questions and offer expert guidance.

The first exam for your new puppy or kitten is crucial for establishing a healthy foundation. We recommend scheduling a puppy or kitten exam with our veterinarian as soon as you bring your pet home. Generally, puppies and kittens should be seen for their first exam at 6 to 8 weeks of age. During this visit, we’ll assess your pet’s overall health, check for parasites, and discuss the appropriate vaccinations and preventive care.

Vaccinations are an essential part of keeping your new pet healthy. During the puppy or kitten exam, our veterinarian will create a vaccination schedule based on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle. Common vaccines for puppies include those for distemper, parvovirus, and rabies, while kittens typically receive vaccines for feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies. We’ll ensure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations and advise you on any additional vaccines based on their environment and potential risks.

In the first year of your pet’s life, regular veterinary visits are key to ensuring they grow strong and healthy. Puppies and kittens typically need to visit our clinic every 3 to 4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. During these visits, we’ll monitor their growth, provide necessary vaccinations, and perform any additional pet exams to detect potential health issues early on. After the first year, your pet will need annual checkups to maintain their health.

At Hot Springs Animal Hospital, we believe that a healthy pet starts with proper at-home care. Here are some key aspects of caring for your new puppy or kitten:

  • Nutrition: Feed your pet high-quality food suited to their age and breed.
  • Exercise: Ensure your puppy gets plenty of playtime, and your kitten has safe opportunities to explore and be active.
  • Parasite Prevention: Ask our veterinarian about flea, tick, and worm prevention.
  • Training and Socialization: Early training and socializing help your pet become well-adjusted and confident.

Schedule Your Puppy or Kitten’s First Visit in Murrieta

Start your new furry friend’s life on the right paw! Schedule a puppy or kitten wellness exam today at Hot Springs Animal Hospital.