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New Pet Care Checklist

Your complete guide to caring for a new puppy, kitten, or adopted pet. Track essential tasks from setup to health monitoring.

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Get Collar, Leash & ID Tag

Critical

Essential for identification and safety during walks. Include your phone number on the tag.

Due by: 1 weekFind Pet Supplies

Purchase Food & Water Bowls

Critical

Stainless steel or ceramic bowls work best. Avoid plastic which can harbor bacteria.

Due by: 1 weekFind Pet Supplies

Set Up Bed & Crate

Important

Provides a safe space and aids in house training. Choose appropriate size for your dog.

Due by: 1 weekFind Pet Supplies

Get Age-Appropriate Toys

Important

Mental stimulation is important. Rotate toys to keep interest. Avoid small choking hazards.

Due by: 1 weekFind Pet Supplies

Stock Grooming Supplies

Important

Brush, nail clippers, dog shampoo, and towels. Establish grooming routine early.

Due by: 2 weeksFind Pet Supplies

Schedule First Vet Visit

Critical

Get a health check, discuss vaccination schedule, and ask about parasite prevention.

Due by: 1 weekFind Low-Cost Clinics

Puppy Vaccination Series - 1st Round

Critical

Usually given at 6-8 weeks. Typically includes DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvo) vaccine.

Tips:

  • •May cause mild lethargy after vaccination - this is normal
  • •Some puppies may experience mild fever or soreness at injection site
  • •Keep puppy calm for 24 hours post-vaccination
Due by: 8 weeksFind Vaccination Clinics

Puppy Vaccination Series - 2nd Round

Critical

Given at 10-12 weeks. Second dose of DHPP and rabies vaccine.

Due by: 12 weeksFind Vaccination Clinics

Puppy Vaccination Series - 3rd Round

Critical

Given at 14-16 weeks. Final dose of DHPP series.

Due by: 16 weeksFind Vaccination Clinics

Rabies Vaccination

Critical

Required by law. First dose at 12-16 weeks, booster at 1 year, then every 1-3 years.

Tips:

  • •Keep rabies certificate for travel and legal compliance
  • •Cost varies by location
Due by: 16 weeksFind Rabies Clinics

Find Affordable Providers

Use our provider directory to find low-cost clinics for vaccinations, spay/neuter, preventatives, and other care services.

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Additional Resources

Pet Cost Calculator

Calculate lifetime costs and budget for your pet

Food Portion Calculator

Determine the right amount to feed your pet

Breed Match Quiz

Find the right breed for your lifestyle

Pet Care Resources

Financial assistance and emergency resources

Veterinary Disclaimer

This checklist is a general guide for new pet owners. This is not medical advice.

  • Timelines and care requirements vary by pet, breed, health status, and location
  • Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice and specific recommendations
  • Verify all costs and requirements with local providers before making decisions
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