What medications...

[Melissa Hazlip]

We haven't brought our little one home yet, but I am trying to get prepared as we have three weeks before we do. What sorts of medications are we supposed to have puppy on? Heartworm? Flea and Tick? Are those things as needed or do they need to be used all year? Also, anything else I am missing. I know it's a silly question, but I get confused on my breeders website trying to figure out what is a suggestion/tip/for future reference, and what is needed from day 1.

Any help would be great!

[Debb, Lucy & Oscar]

Melissa, I strongly suggest you take your puppy to your preferred vet within 3 days of puppy's arrival home (this may be a condition of your breeder's contract). Your vet can ensure your puppy gets all the necessary medications/vaccinations it may need and schedule additional boosters and/or other vaccinations that may be necessary in the weeks to come. Different vaccinations are given at different intervals, and your puppy may already have received one or more by the time you get him or her home. Your breeder should furnish you with a vaccination/worming schedule of services they've already performed. Your vet most probably will want to do a fecal exam as well to ensure puppy is parasite free. Flea/tick/heart worm medication suggestions will also be given by your vet, as well as the time line to start them. I believe flea/tick/heart worm medication will be needed year round. It is in our area, but that may vary depending on your location. Really the only thing you need to do is schedule a vet appt. Hope this helps.

[Melissa Hazlip]

Thanks so much! We are supposed to take our little one to the vet within five days, according to our contract! I am glad you reminded me, because I know our vet will keep us informed of what we need!

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

I'd keep a bottle of hydrogen peroxide on hand, in case you ever need to induce vomiting.  I know that you asked for suggested medicines, but hydrogen peroxide could come in handy if she ever ingests human medicines.  Other than that, your vet will give you a thorough education about what your puppy will need.  Remember to bring a poop sample with you to your first appointment.  Enjoy your puppy!