Puppy

Prep and

Supplies

   
How to Prepare for a Puppy

Puppyhood is easier when you have what you need. Learn more about how to prepare for a new puppy and what essential supplies you need. Plus, we’ve got answers to your most frequently asked questions.

   
Puppy-proofing your house
You’ve heard of childproofing your home, but did you think about puppy-proofing before bringing your new puppy home? Puppies are inquisitive and rambunctious, which means they’re also good at getting into trouble. Follow these tips to keep your puppy safe from accident and injury.

Keep Up with Your Growing Pup  

Check off the essential tasks that will help your new puppy grow healthy and strong at each age and stage.

Download the Checklist
   

 

Book Your Puppy’s
First Appointment

Get your puppy started on the right paw with world-class medicine delivered with hometown care.

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Support From the Very Start

Unlimited Exams*
with CareClub®

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with the myVCA app**

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Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Prep and Supplies

When preparing for a new puppy, you’ll want to ensure you have all the supplies you need and that you have puppy-proofed your home. Plan ahead on how to introduce your puppy to their new family members, and ensure you have safe zones for them and any other pets in the home. Your VCA care team is happy to discuss puppyhood needs with you before bringing home a new puppy. 

The best way to mentally prepare is to ensure you understand their needs before bringing a puppy home. Familiarize yourself with the stages of puppyhood, including how frequently they need to eliminate at different ages. Gather all the puppy essentials and puppy-proof your home. Your VCA care team is happy to talk you through the medical needs of puppies so that you’re ready for the health demands of a growing puppy.

You’ll want to make sure you have all the puppy essentials for resting, playing, grooming, safety, dietary and travel needs. Review the new puppy supplies checklist to ensure you’re not forgetting anything!

 
Back to New Puppy Guide

 

 

*Unlimited exams are any exams during regular business hours, excluding specialty, emergency and telemedicine exams. Urgent care exams are available through CareClub until December 31, 2024, at select VCA Animal Hospitals Urgent Care locations.


CareClub® Memberships are preventive pet health care plans and not pet insurance. CareClub Membership covers only the selected health care services and products which are specifically identified in the applicable CareClub Membership agreement.

 

**Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.