Once you bring your kitten or puppy home, you’ll want to help them live their best, healthiest life. Here are the top things to know about young pet health.
What to Know About Kitten Health
When kittens are born, they weigh up to 3% of their mother’s weight. That’s so tiny! By six months old, the kitten will have reached 75% of their adult weight. Kittens grow quickly, so they need high-quality kitten food to support their journey to adulthood.
Fresh, clean water is just as important to kitten development as food, so make sure your kitten always has access to water.
A head-to-tail physical examination by your veterinarian is important soon after you bring your kitten home. Catching any health concerns early in life makes treatment more effective and less expensive. And if your kitten is perfectly healthy, it’s wonderful to get that peace of mind.
Kitten vaccinations are critical for the long-term health of your pet. Based on your environment and the latest recommendations, your veterinarian will share information. Together, you’ll make the best decisions for your kitten.
Parasites are also a fact of life for kittens. Testing for and treating common parasites preserves your kitten’s long-term health.
Start brushing your kitten’s teeth now, and they’ll get used to the process.
Talk with your veterinarian about making a plan for spaying/neutering your kitten at the right age.
Also, you might consider purchasing pet health insurance while your kitten is young and healthy.
What to Know About Puppy Health
Different dog breeds grow at different rates. Small breeds reach their adult size by 12 months, while larger breeds might grow for up to two years. Because of rapid growth, your puppy should be fed a high-quality puppy food for at least the first year of life. Your veterinarian can give personalized advice for your puppy.
Puppies need to stay hydrated, so always allow them access to fresh, clean water.
Soon after you bring your puppy home, you should make a first appointment with your veterinarian. Your puppy will get used to visiting and being examined. And a head-to-tail examination can identify any health concerns to watch out for.
Puppy vaccinations can start at their first visit, especially for life-threatening conditions like parvo or required-by-law rabies. Based on your lifestyle and the latest guidelines, your veterinarian will discuss other recommended vaccinations.
Detection, treatment and prevention of parasites starts at the puppy age. Heartworm prevention is critical for the long-term health of your puppy. And other common parasites should be diagnosed and treated (puppies aren’t known for being fastidious, so almost all puppies will contract some sort of parasite).
Flea and tick prevention is also something you’ll want to consider early in your puppy’s life.
Dental health affects a dog’s overall health. Start brushing your puppy’s teeth early on, and they’ll be trained for life.
You’ll also want to make a plan with your veterinarian for spaying/neutering.
If you think pet health insurance is something you’re interested in, it’s economical to start it when your dog is young and healthy.
All of this might seem like a lot to know! At Companion Care Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you with health of your puppy or kitten. Contact us with questions or to schedule an appointment.
March 13 is a designated day to honor and appreciate the service and sacrifice made by K9 officers across the nation. According to Military.com:
“It was on March 13, 1942, that the Army began training for its new War Dog Program, also known as the ‘K-9 Corps,’ according to American Humane, marking the first time that dogs were officially a part of the U.S. Armed Forces.”
K9 Veteran Stories
Watch these stories of dedicated K9 officers who earn a well-deserved retirement.
The National Police Dog Foundation is a charitable organization for in-training, active and retired K9 officers. This video shows what they do.
Here’s what the National Police Dog Foundation say about K9 veterans:
“Most K-9s after active service go home with their handlers to become household pets. The ongoing medical care for the retired K-9s can be very expensive. The National Police Dog Foundation commends these handlers for their dedication to the K-9s and is proud to assists in the costs of Medical Care for the retired K-9s.”
During Pet Health Dental Month, we like to highlight how important dental care is for your pet’s overall health. Good dental health helps your pet feel better, eat better and behave better. Dental disease can cause bacterial problems throughout the body’s systems, along with the problems that come with infected gums or diseased teeth.
Know the Signs of Dental Disease
Most pet dental disease occurs below the gum line, where you can’t see it. Your pet’s teeth and gums should be checked at least once a year by your veterinarian. But, if you see any of these symptoms, call your veterinarian:
Red, swollen gums
Increased drooling
Dropping food from the mouth
Whining while eating
Loss of appetite
Unexpected weight loss
Loose or discolored teeth
Bleeding from mouth
Unwillingness to play with toys
Top Pet Dental Care Steps
Pet dental health is critical for overall health. Here are the top things you can do to improve and preserve your pet’s teeth and gums:
Toothbrushing with a soft brush and water or pet-formulated paste
Regular veterinary examinations, at least annually
Professional dental cleaning if recommended by your veterinarian
Look for signs of oral disease
Has it been awhile since your pet’s last dental cleaning? Contact us to see if it might be time.
We love celebrating Love Your Pet Day on February 20! Our pets are always there for us, and they deserve some recognition. Here are our lists for five reasons we love dogs and five reasons we love cats.
5 Reasons We Love Dogs
All dogs are unique, but they also share essential qualities that make them man’s best friend. Here are just some of the things we love about dogs.
Loyalty is probably the top word to describe dogs. Our dogs love us no matter what– they don’t care if we’re having a bad hair day.
Their cheerfulness boosts our mood. Who can frown while their dog is standing there, tail wagging?
Dogs are so cute! All dogs are adorable– from small to large, from short-haired to long.
Dogs love a cuddle and live for your love. Especially during this chilly winter, it’s just wonderful to snuggle on the couch with your pooch.
And what’s an adventure without your dog? Your dog is ready to take on the world with you! Let’s go for a walk, or a car ride– as long as we do it together.
5 Reasons We Love Cats
And let us not forget about cats (not that they would let us)! These five traits are unique to our feline friends, and they are part of the reasons we love them.
Personality is a cat’s defining characteristic. Every cat is his or herself, and we love that about them.
Cats choose us! When a cat wants to spend time with you, it’s a great honor.
And a cat’s independence is wonderful. You just know your cat has a rich, inner life that is somewhat mysterious.
Cats are curious and fun. They want to explore and learn– and maybe stalk and trap.
Cats are also elegant and beautiful. They are a joy to watch navigating their environment. Who knew slinking around the living room could look so graceful?
What do you love about your pet? Share your stories and pictures with us on Facebook. We would just love it!
These Small Steps Will Make Great Strides for Your Pet’s Health
A New Year’s Resolution often centers around health and fitness, so why not help your pet have their best year yet?
Make a wellness appointment with your veterinarian: An annual exam is the #1 best thing you can do for your pet’s health
Ask your veterinarian if your pet is a healthy weight:“Up to 63% of pet cats and 59.3% of pet dogs are overweight or obese“
Exercise with your pet 10 minutes per day: This could be a quick walk, or a spirited toy session
Offer healthy snacks instead: Here’s a recipe for Easy peanut butter pumpkin dog biscuits. Also, raw carrots, plain cooked meats or frozen green beans are good options
Have a brushing cuddle sessions once a week: Keep your pet free from matted fur, while also assessing any physical changes that you may want to bring up with your veterinarian
We hope you and your pet enjoy a 2026 of better health and wellness! Contact us if you have any questions about your pet or to schedule the all-important wellness visit.
Winter is Revving Up in January. Stay Cozy with These Tips
Overall, December temperatures were fairly mild for the season. As we move into January and February, we’re sure to see some arctic weather in the forecast. Winter can be a challenging time for pets, so watch for these cold weather hazards.
Be Prepared for Cold
Have an emergency kit that includes your pet’s needs in case of severe weather or prolonged power outage
If your dog has a short coat, consider a sweater or dog coat for outdoor excursions
Consider booties for your dog’s feet. Not only does it protect them from the cold, but from de-icing chemicals, as well
Ensure all outdoor pets have insulated shelter and unfrozen drinking water
Know Your Pet’s Limits
Know your pet’s tolerance for the cold and adjust accordingly. Keep in mind that very young pet and older pets are more sensitive to cold
Shorten walks in really cold weather
Avoid Injury and Poisoning
Check under your care, bang the hood and hong the horn before starting the engine. Cats and other small animals are attracted to the warmth of a parked engine
Use pet-safe de-icing products
Clean up any antifreeze spills quickly. Animals are attracted to this sweet, toxic liquid
Stay away from frozen ponds, lakes and streams. Animals might break through the ice out of your reach, creating a very dangerous situation. If your pet does escape onto the ice, do not follow– you weigh more than your pet
Check your dog’s paws frequently for signs of irritation or injury
Wipe down or wash your pet’s feet, legs and belly to remove packed snow, ice, salt and de-icing chemicals after walks
Have questions about keeping your cat or dog safe this winter? Contact us.
In 2025, We Highlighted Some of Our Most Precious Patients
As clients brought in their precious pets for wellness visits, dental care and health concerns last year, some of them were feeling photogenic. Take a look at these beautiful babies.
Everyone, this is Ziggy & he was in for a dental procedure today! He was dressed to impress with his denim jacket. We hope you all enjoy this cute picture of ziggy 😊
Meet Oreo! Isn’t he a cutie! He’s new to our practice, and came to see us last week.
Mozzie and Neal stopped by today and volunteered for our kissing booth! It was a fun way to end their appointment.
We had some more volunteers for our kissing booth! Are they not adorable!
Remi is so sweet.
And finally, here’s Lucy.
These lovely kittens and their mama also came in on Valentine’s Day to get a check-up.
Ivory was in for a visit, and shared her St. Patrick’s Day photo!
What a cutie!
We had some bunnies stop in to visit us
Some bunny VERY special came to see us! Cosmo was found at a local park last year, and after seeming to be doing well and growing, he started to become very sick and losing weight. After we diagnosed him with FIP, a disease that used to be considered 100% fatal, he started talking a new drug that has been successful in treating many cats with this illness. Within days we could see he was improving! He started eating better, growing, and thriving again! After 3 months of treatment, Cosmo is cured! What a little warrior this guy has been!
Brutus wanted to pretend he was the Easter Bunny at his visit today!
We wanted to wish Shruikan a Happy Birthday! This adorable boy turned 18 yesterday!
Ms. Butterscotch came to get her monthly mani/pedi before Easter🐰🐇
Miss Molly came in to be spayed. She was the sweetest and cutest patient we just had to give her a special bow
The snow didn’t stop Santa from joining us for pictures!
Happy New Year from Companion Care Animal Hospital! Help your pet have their healthiest year yet by making their wellness visit. Contact us today.
Holidays are a delightful change of pace, with their own special decorations and foods. As you’re changing up your family’s routines, keep these simple tips in mind to make your home a safe environment for your pets.
Holiday No-No Foods
These foods are toxic for our cats and dogs. Don’t feed any of these items to your pets, and remind your guests to ask before feeding your pets anything.
Chocolate
Alcohol
Bones
Onions/garlic
Grapes/raisins
Candy (some kinds are toxic, but all candy is unhealthy for your pet)
Poisonous Plants
Real plants are beautiful, but many of them are also toxic if ingested. Here are four common Christmas plants that you should substitute with artificial alternatives:
Poinsettias
Holly
Mistletoe
Lilies
Decoration Safety
Who doesn’t love a festive Christmas tree? Well, sometimes your cat or dog might love it too much. Keep these decoration safety tips in mind:
Do not use salt dough ornaments
If enjoying a real tree, cover the tree stand to prevent pets from drinking the water
Regularly sweep up pine needles, which can cause GI upset if ingested
Avoid using tinsel. It can get caught in your pet’s intestines, which is a dangerous emergency
Place ornaments on higher branches, out of your pet’s reach
Another health tip for the holidays is keeping your pet up-to-date on their check-ups. If it’s been awhile since your cat or dog has been in for a wellness visit, contact us.
Thankful for Purr-fect Patients and Caring Clients
We love hearing stories about our patients, so we wanted to share some pet pictures and tales we’ve received in 2025.
When the weather was balmy, we enjoyed seeing this lovely pup for a first wellness visit.
“very friendly, empathetic and helpful staff took amazing care of me and my boyfriends golden retriever, helped us work out prices and the right care needed for him. made his first vet visit a breeze!”
Dana has been trusting us with her dog’s care for 10 years, and she recently had a health concern with her cat. We were happy to help, and thankfully it wasn’t a serious health issue! She shared:
“So kudos too companion care, you guys rock! Thank you for caring enough to do what you do and to be so COMPASSIONATE about it while you’re doing it! Thank you for taking care of my fur babies and relieving My stress that I’ve had the last 4 days over this issue with my cat. I hope others READ THIS and can understand the importance that this means to a lot of people– the importance that you’re here to fix our animals for us!!! And trust me, our fur babies appreciate you more than you’ll ever know also!!! 💖💯🫶🫶🫶🐈⬛🐕”
And just look at these two dogs… Here’s a puppy who knows who’s boss!
Ian shares his experience with both puppy veterinary care and adult dog veterinary care at our hospital:
“Once with an adult dog and once with a new puppy. And I can not say enough good things about them. all the staff and vets are great. facilities are nice and clean, and the prices are awesome. Would definitely recommend them for all your pet needs.”
We truly appreciate the kind words from this client. Missy, we love you, too!
“I love this group! All of the vets are wonderful, knowledgeable, and clearly love the animals they care for. The vet techs and front desk staff are equally amazing! Companion Care has been able to see my pets urgently when issues arise. They call to check up on my pets after sick visits, procedures, etc. I have been taking my pets here for about 10 years and wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
And we appreciate Brutus being such a good sport for us during his Easter-time wellness visit.
And for short, sweet and to-the-point, Deborah sums up her experience:
“Nice people: caring and cost-effective.”
And Jessica, too:
“Very knowledgeable vets!”
And, Joe, we are glad you appreciate our appointment reminders! With so many things on everyone’s calendars, a scheduled appointment can be easy to miss.
“Excellent care and wonderful staff make this veterinarian above and beyond. Helpful and informative staff with great notifications on upcoming appointments.”
We also encourage our clients to call whenever they have questions or concerns, like Mary:
“They’re always available when I call and very kind to my cat and me.”
Finally, here is one more client story that sums up why we are passionate about veterinary medicine. From preventive care to urgent situations, we want to help pets live their healthiest, happiest lives!
“So thankful to have found this place. We have (elderly) 2 cats and a new pup, and I’ve never found a vet that is so caring and compassionate about the pets the come through their doors. What really stood out to us is how kind and gentle Dr. Roemer was with our pup and answered all the questions we had every single visit (no matter how silly). We felt listened to and understood, especially as new puppy parents. We have seen both Dr. Roemer and Dr. Simensen and couldn’t say a single bad thing about either of them. Both of them were so kind to our pets and were clearly committed to helping us give them the best life possible. The best part of it all – our pup now recognizes when were headed to the vet and actually gets excited to see the team there. Today, unfortunately, I had to come in for an emergency visit because my puppy swallowed a sock. While I was so upset and mad with myself for being a “bad dog mom”, they reassured me that everything would be okay and within an hour of him swallowing the sock, I called Companion Care Animal Hospital, they got us in, they removed it, and we were back home. IN AN HOUR. So thankful for this team and their care for our fur babies! Couldn’t recommend this place enough!”
If we haven’t seen you in awhile, contact us to see if your pet is in need of wellness care. It’s the best gift you could give you pet this holiday season. And thank you for being a Companion Care Animal Hospital client!
