Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming actor and animal advocate Joey Luthman to Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic and Cat Specialty Center as part of his inspiring cross-country “Ride for Cats.”
Joey is traveling from California to Maine on a one-wheeled electric board to raise funds and awareness for EveryCat Health Foundation. Motivated by the loss of two of his own cats—one to cancer and one to chronic kidney disease—he launched this 45-day journey to support research that could lead to better outcomes for feline patients everywhere. So far, Joey has raised over $10,000 to fund studies focused on feline cancer and kidney disease.
We were honored that he chose to visit Faithful Friends during his ride. Joey spent time with members of our Cat Specialty Center team and bonded over a shared passion for advancing feline health and wellness. His visit felt especially meaningful given our own commitment to improving outcomes for cats facing serious conditions like CKD.
Help Support the Cause
If you would like to contribute to Joey’s fundraiser, you can donate directly to EveryCat Health Foundation.
You can also make a difference by helping us spread the word about our ongoing clinical trial for cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD). If you or someone you know has a cat with CKD, they may be eligible to participate in a new study exploring new treatment options. Contact our team to learn more about eligibility and whether your cat may benefit from emerging research.
At Faithful Friends, we believe in the power of advocacy, innovation, and education to help cats live longer, healthier lives. We’re proud to support causes that align with that mission and grateful to Joey for helping raise awareness in such a meaningful way.
Bringing home a new kitten is an exciting milestone, especially if your family already includes other cats. To help everyone settle in comfortably, it’s important to start with a thoughtful introduction. One of the best ways to support a smooth transition is by giving your new kitten some time in their own space before any direct meetings. With a little patience and the right approach, your feline family can learn to live together in harmony.
The Importance of Isolation
Keeping your new kitten separated at first may feel counterintuitive, but it’s actually a key part of setting them up for long-term success. A short isolation period allows your new pet to:
Settle into their new space at their own pace
Become familiar with your home’s sights, sounds, and smells
Get used to the scent of other pets without direct contact
Give you time to observe their health before they interact with other cats
Isolation not only reduces stress for your new kitten, but also helps your existing cats feel less threatened by the change in their environment.
Recommended Isolation Period
We recommend keeping your new kitten in a separate room for about 10 to 14 days. This space should be equipped with everything they need, including food, water, a litter box, and cozy bedding. Spend plenty of time in this area so your kitten can bond with you and begin to feel secure.
Gradual Introduction
Once your kitten has had time to adjust, you can begin gradual introductions. Not every cat will welcome a new sibling right away, and easing into the process can help prevent anxiety or aggression.
Here are some helpful steps to follow:
Scent Exchange: Swap bedding or toys between your pets so they can get used to each other’s smell.
Supervised Greetings: Allow brief, controlled visits using a baby gate or cracked door. These low-pressure interactions help pets become familiar with one another without feeling overwhelmed.
Positive Reinforcement: Offer praise, treats, and gentle encouragement to create positive associations.
Watch Body Language: Look for signs of stress or fear, and don’t be afraid to slow down if needed. Every cat adjusts at their own pace.
Full Integration
Eventually, the goal is for all your cats to live comfortably together. That might happen in a few days or take a little longer. What matters most is keeping things low-stress and allowing your pets to build confidence in their new family dynamic. For more information on introducing your cats, check out our guide: How to Introduce Your Kitten to a New Cat.
If you’ve ever lost a cat to heart disease, you know how helpless it can feel. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common heart disease in cats, has long been considered a “silent killer,” often showing no signs until it’s too late.
But today, we finally have hope.
Meet Felycin-CA1: The First FDA Conditionally Approved Treatment for Subclinical HCM
Felycin®-CA1 is the first and only FDA conditionally approved once-weekly drug for the management of ventricular hypertrophy in cats with subclinical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) – that means it’s intended for cats with HCM who have not yet developed outward symptoms of heart failure.
This is a groundbreaking shift. In the past, veterinarians had little to offer once an HCM diagnosis was made, other than monitoring and preparing for eventual heart failure. Now, early detection means early action—and the possibility of slowing disease progression before symptoms arise.
Why Early Detection Matters
HCM affects 1 in 7 cats—think about that the next time you’re with your cat-loving friends. That’s one reason why annual exams, routine bloodwork, and regular heart screenings are so critical. Often, the only early clue is a subtle heart murmur picked up during a wellness check.
As Dr. Ashlie Saffire, board-certified feline specialist and key opinion leader on this new treatment, explains:
“We’ve waited a long time for a treatment like this. For years, I’ve diagnosed cats with subclinical HCM and had to tell families we just had to ‘wait and watch.’ We can only treat clinical signs as the disease progresses. It’s absolutely heartbreaking. Now, we can finally do something proactive with this diagnosis and potentially prevent, or delay progressive left ventricular hypertrophy.”
Dr. Saffire is one of the first veterinarians in Ohio to prescribe Felycin-CA1, and she recently started it for one of her most beloved patients, her own cat, Chicken.
Chicken’s Story: One Cat’s Journey with HCM
Earlier this year, Dr. Saffire’s own cat, Chicken, was diagnosed with HCM after routine screening, and an echocardiogram confirmed the disease had progressed.
Rather than wait, Chicken became one of the first patients at Faithful Friends Vet Clinic and Cat Specialty Center to begin treatment with Felycin-CA1.
“We’ve been monitoring Chicken’s heart for a couple of years,” says Dr. Saffire. “When we saw progression on her echo, we started her on Felycin-CA1 right away. It was empowering to finally do something.”
Chicken will undergo regular check-ins every 3 months, including follow-up x-rays and echocardiograms to monitor the effects of treatment. Her story is one we’ll be sharing more of, because every cat deserves the chance she’s now getting.
How Felycin-CA1 Works
Felycin-CA1 contains sirolimus, also known as rapamycin, which inhibits one of the pathways that leads to heart remodeling and the pathologic hypertrophy which develops in cats with HCM. It’s administered orally once a week. AVeterinarian must confirm the diagnosis through echocardiography and ensure no signs of heart failure are present before prescribing. That’s why early and accurate screening is essential.
Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic and Cat Specialty Center Is Now Prescribing Felycin-CA1
Our clinic is now equipped to diagnose and treat HCM with this revolutionary medication. With the availability of performing on-site echocardiograms by a boarded cardiologist, we can evaluate your cat’s heart health without the stress of external referrals.
Whether your cat is showing signs of a murmur, or you’re simply curious about preventive care, now is the time to test. And if we detect HCM early, we can take action.
3 Things Every Cat Parent Should Do Today:
Schedule your cat’s annual wellness exam. Early detection starts with listening to the heart and performing annual wellness labwork. Ask if a proBNP screening blood test is right for your cat.
Ask about echocardiograms—especially if your cat is a breed prone to HCM (like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, Sphinx and Persians).
Don’t ignore heart murmurs. Even if your cat seems fine, a murmur could be a sign of early disease.
Felycin-CA1 represents more than just a new medication; it’s a new chapter for feline cardiology and for families who love their cats like family.
Want to learn more or schedule a heart screening for your cat? Call or text us today at 614-389-0997.
🎧 Interested in hearing more about this groundbreaking new treatment? Listen to Dr. Saffire’s podcast interview on VETgirl!
Thank you to everyone who joined us in commemorating the next chapter of care at Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic & Cat Specialty Center. Our new, 7,000-square-foot facility on Liggett Road was built with your pets in mind, featuring expanded surgical suites, a designated radiation treatment room for hyperthyroidism, separate dog and cat waiting areas, and our state-of-the-art Cat Specialty Center led by Ohio’s only board-certified feline specialist, Dr. Ashlie Saffire.
This event wasn’t just about celebrating a building – it was about celebrating the incredible community of pet parents who inspire us daily. Now, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for: our Grand Opening giveaway winners!
[Very cool] Faithful Friends Mugs: Steve Plogsted, Dennis Weekley, Anna Sebastian, Daniel Parker, Mandy Miller, Sia Tanner, Zach Arthur, and Lorien Parry Luehrs
Also at the event, we invited our guests, sponsors, and attendees to support the Ohio Pet Charities (OPC), an organization committed to the welfare of animals. We are very proud to share that OPC received more than $500 because of our event.
Thank you so much to everyone who attended and helped us celebrate this new chapter. We look forward to continuing the same faithful care in our new facility.
Reminder to book your cat and dog wellness appointments in advance by calling or texting the office at 614-389-0997.
We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Emma Hart to the Faithful Friends team! As the newest veterinarian at our Cat Specialty Center, Dr. Hart brings a deep love for feline medicine and a personal, science-driven approach to every patient interaction. Located in Dublin, near Plain City, the Cat Specialty Center welcomes pet patients from throughout Central Ohio.
We sat down with Dr. Hart to learn more about her path to veterinary medicine, what inspires her, and what makes our new facility such a special place for cats, and the people who love them.
Q&A with Dr. Emma Hart
Q: What inspired you to become a veterinarian? I’ve always loved animals but didn’t initially have the confidence to pursue a career path in veterinary medicine. I started in pre-pharmacy and very strongly considered pursuing a PhD, but during my last year of college at University of Illinois Chicago it became clear to me that I wanted to work with animals. After graduation, I moved to Ohio and worked in a vet practice to get more experience and confirm this path. That paved the way to attend The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and I haven’t looked back since.
Q: What’s your favorite part about working with animals? What started as a love for animals has grown into a passion for solving complex problems. I love applying clinical reasoning to improve pets’ lives and creating meaningful relationships with their people too.
Q: Do you have a specialty? Yes, feline medicine is my special interest. I’ve received close mentorship from leading feline experts like Dr. Ashlie Saffire and Dr. Jessica Quimby and just completed an internal medicine specialty internship focused on clinical research and feline chronic kidney disease (CKD) at OSU.
Q: What drew you to Faithful Friends? Watching Dr. Saffire work was honestly inspiring. Her compassion and expertise made me want to follow in her footsteps, ever since I first shadowed her as a vet student over 4 years ago now. I knew this was the kind of clinic—and team—I wanted to be part of. I’m very proud to be a part of the Cat Specialty Center.
Q: What’s special about the new Faithful Friends facility? Everything has been designed with cats in mind—from separate entrances and waiting areas to stress-reducing exam rooms and feline-only boarding. It’s quiet, calm, and truly optimized for cat comfort.
Q: How do you help keep visits low-stress for cats and their people? I’ve lived with 5–6 cats at a time and currently foster kittens, so I get it. I know how stressful vet visits can be, especially when you’re adding medications or facing tough news. And, when cat parents hear about my own experiences and challenges when caring for my own personal, they often feel at ease. They know that I can often deeply relate to what they’re experiencing. That empathy helps me create a more supportive, understanding experience.
Q: What’s one thing you wish more pet parents knew? Pet insurance! It helps take the financial pressure off during emergencies or chronic care. Having it in place before something happens allows you to focus on treatment, not the cost. Plus, there are more options now, from companies that are more familiar with vet care. It’s definitely worth exploring if you’re a pet parent, especially when your pets are still at their healthiest.
Q: Tell us about your pets. I have five permanent feline residents, one of whom is my “honorary son” who arrived at two days old, and two 5-week-old foster kittens. Plus, I have a dog named Ash. Yes, I do like dogs, too. Ash is a Border Collie, Boxer, and Jack Russell mix who “thinks he’s a cat” and is amazing with the kittens.
Q: How do you spend your time away from work? Obviously, I like hanging out with cat family, fosters, and Ash. But I also enjoy gardening, cooking, hiking…and I’m really into K-Pop!
Q: If you could talk to cats, what would you ask? Seriously? I’d ask what we can do to make vet visits better. Not-so-seriously? I’d tell them, “Please stop judging me, because I know you already are!”.
Rapid Fire with Dr. Hart
Mountains, beach, or city? Mountains
Favorite vet gadget? Pan retinal lens – for eye exams. It is my thing.
If you’re like most cat parents, you know your feline friend’s favorite spots to nap, the sound of their meow, and exactly when they’re hinting for snacks. But when it comes to detecting health issues, even the most attentive cat owner can miss the subtle changes that signal something’s wrong.
That’s where the Petivity Litter Box Monitor comes in. This smart device uses AI technology to track your cat’s weight and litter box habits, alerting you to changes before they become bigger problems. Paired with a mobile app, it gives you daily updates and monthly reports you can share with your veterinarian, turning routine bathroom visits into powerful preventive health insights.
Why Daily Litter Box and Weight Tracking Matters
Cats are notorious for hiding illness until it’s advanced. A slight dip in weight, an extra trip to the litter box, or changes in waste can indicate anything from urinary tract issues to kidney disease.
The challenge? These signs can be so subtle that even the most observant pet parent might miss them. Petivity translates these small changes into clear, actionable data—so you can stay ahead of potential health concerns.
Key Features Cat Parents Love
Daily Tracking – Monitors every litter box visit and records your cat’s weight each time.
Monthly Insights Reports – Summarizes trends for you and your vet.
Health Alerts – Notifies you about significant changes worth investigating.
Multiple Cat Recognition – Learns to identify each cat in your household.
What Your Petivity Data Can Tell You
The Petivity app doesn’t just collect numbers, it gives you context. You can track:
Daily, weekly, and monthly weight changes
Litter box visit patterns (frequency, timing, and type of waste)
Sudden changes that could signal a health or emotional issue
Long-term trends to support preventive care discussions with your vet
Petivity FAQ: Answers from the Experts
Q: How much should my cat’s weight fluctuate?
Small, daily fluctuations are normal. Petivity logs only the patterns that are outside your cat’s healthy range.
Q: What if I’m not seeing data for one of my cats?
The system may still be learning, or your cat may not have used the litter box recently. Check labeling and ensure proper monitor setup.
Q: How often should I check the app?
Daily check-ins help you catch trends early and respond quickly.
Q: How will I know if I should call my vet?
If you see persistent changes over several days or weeks, especially in weight, waste type, or frequency, bring that data (and your observations) to your veterinarian.
When to Take Action on Petivity Alerts
Call your vet if you notice:
A sudden increase in litter box visits without an environmental trigger
Consistent weight loss or gain over time
Changes in urination or stool quality
Shifts in behavior or appetite alongside the data changes
Making Petivity Part of Your Cat’s Wellness Routine
Think of Petivity as a health partner for your cat. By combining your observations, your vet’s expertise, and Petivity’s data, you create a comprehensive picture of your cat’s health.
Final Thoughts
Being a proactive pet parent means noticing the small things before they become big things. The Petivity Litter Box Monitor gives you the power to see those subtle shifts, helping you keep your cat happy, healthy, and by your side for years to come.
If you’d like to discuss whether Petivity is a good fit for your cat, our Cat Specialty Center team is here to help.
When the temperature starts to climb, your pet’s health could be at risk, even if you’re just heading outside for a quick walk or are indoors without air conditioning. Dogs and cats are much more sensitive to heat than we are, and even short exposure to high temperatures can quickly lead to overheating.
Knowing the early signs of heat stress and how to respond can help you act fast and prevent a serious emergency.
Heatstroke in Cats
A cat is considered to be in heatstroke once their body temperature exceeds 104°F. The earlier stage, heat exhaustion, typically begins between 103 and 104°F and can serve as a critical warning sign if caught in time.
Early Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
Panting or drooling
Sweaty paw pads
Increased grooming to cool down
Drinking more than usual
Seeking out cool spots like tile floors or shady corners
If your cat shows these signs, do not wait. Move them into an air-conditioned or shaded space, offer fresh cold water, and gently place a damp, cool towel along their back. From there, contact your veterinarian right away, even if they appear to improve.
If the situation progresses into full heatstroke, symptoms become more severe.
Signs of Heatstroke in Cats:
Disorientation or stumbling
Bright red or bruised-looking gums
Vomiting or diarrhea, sometimes with blood
Wheezing or labored breathing
Seizures or collapse
Body temperature over 104°F
Cats most at risk include:
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds
Senior cats, obese cats, and kittens under 4 months old
Cats with chronic conditions like kidney disease or diabetes
Indoor cats exposed to outdoor heat
Any cat left in a parked car or closed room without air conditioning
Heatstroke in Dogs
Dogs often show signs of heatstroke earlier than cats. Initially, a dog may experience heat cramps, which are muscle spasms caused by dehydration. If they continue to exert themselves, they may become weak, nauseated, or confused, entering the heat exhaustion phase.
Warning Signs to Watch For:
Heavy panting and drooling
Fast heart rate
Fatigue, stumbling, or confusion
Vomiting or diarrhea
Body temperature over 104°F
Heatstroke in dogs often results from two avoidable situations:
Being left in a parked car, even for a few minutes
Exercising in hot, humid weather without adequate water or shade
Next Steps
If you suspect your pet is experiencing heatstroke, your first step should be to call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic. Your vet will guide you on how to begin cooling your pet while you prepare for transport. This may include:
Move your pet to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned area
Wet their body with cool (not cold) water, or place a damp towel on them
Offer fresh water if they are alert, but do not force them to drink
Acting quickly can help prevent serious complications such as brain damage, organ failure, or death.
Awareness Is Key
Heatstroke can escalate in minutes, but it is often preventable. Avoid outdoor play during peak heat, ensure constant access to fresh water, and never leave pets in cars or enclosed areas without ventilation. Reach out to your veterinarian or an emergency clinic as soon as you notice any signs of heat related illness.
National Immunization Awareness Month at Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic & Cat Specialty Center
August marks National Immunization Awareness Month, a timely reminder that vaccines are one of the most powerful tools we have to protect our pets. Whether your dog or cat is just starting life or entering their golden years, staying on top of their vaccinations is essential for their health and safety.
Vaccines for Puppies and Kittens: A Critical Foundation
Young pets are naturally more vulnerable to illness. Their immune systems are still developing, and without early protection, they’re at risk for serious diseases like parvovirus, distemper, rabies, and feline panleukopenia.
That’s why we start vaccinations early, typically around six to eight weeks of age, and follow a carefully timed series of boosters. These foundational vaccines help build lasting immunity and keep your pet protected as they begin exploring the world.
Adult Dogs and Cats: Keeping Immunity Strong
Just like in humans, vaccine protection can diminish over time. For adult pets, staying up to date with booster shots is critical – even if they’ve been vaccinated before.
Pets that spend time at dog parks, boarding facilities, grooming salons, or around other animals are especially at risk for contagious diseases. Regular vaccinations reduce that risk, help prevent outbreaks, and are often required for participation in community pet services and at boarding facilities.
Senior Pets: Tailored Protection Matters
As dogs and cats age, their immune systems can become less responsive. Some senior pets are more susceptible to illness, while others may develop chronic conditions that impact how their bodies respond to vaccines.
At Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic and Cat Specialty Center, we take a personalized approach to senior care. That means evaluating your pet’s health history, lifestyle, and risk factors to decide which vaccines are still necessary and how frequently they should be given. In many cases, continuing core vaccines is still the safest choice.
Regular vaccination is also an opportunity to spot emerging health concerns early. During these visits, our team conducts full exams, answers your questions, and updates your pet’s preventive care plan based on their current needs.
Book a Vaccination Appointment for Your Dog or Cat
If it’s been more than a year since your dog or cat’s last vaccination, now is the time to schedule a visit. Let’s make sure they’re protected – at every stage of life.
Mark your calendars—Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic and Cat Specialty Center is celebrating our new, state-of-the-art facility in Dublin, and we want you to celebrate with us!
Join us on Saturday, August 16th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at 6780 Liggett Road, Dublin, Ohio 43016 for an exciting afternoon filled with community, celebration, and giveaways. Whether you’re one of our loyal pet families, a first-time visitor, or a fellow pet lover in the neighborhood, we can’t wait to welcome you.
What to Expect at the Grand Opening
Our new 7,000 square foot facility has been thoughtfully designed to provide the most advanced care in a space that’s comfortable and calming for both pets and their families. From our designated Cat Specialty Center to expanded treatment areas and stress-reducing design features for both dogs and cats, the new facility reflects our continued commitment to compassionate, expert veterinary care.
During the event, guests will have the chance to:
Meet the Faithful Friends and Cat Specialty Center teams
Explore the new facility, including our cutting-edge exam rooms, operating spaces, comfort suites, and separate dog and cat treatment areas
Enjoy a cool treat from the Kona Ice truck, generously donated by our end-of-life care partner, Forever Friends
Enjoy live music provided by Shakey Leg and the Cover Stealer
To keep everyone comfortable, we kindly ask pet parents to leave their pets at home. With August heat and the excitement of the day, we want to avoid any stressful situations between animals and ensure a relaxed experience for all guests.
Enter to win exclusive giveaways—winners will be announced at the end of August.
Giveaway winners will be announced the following week.
RSVP
Follow Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic and Cat Specialty Center
Stay tuned for highlights from the grand opening celebration. We’ll be sharing photos, behind-the-scenes peeks, and live updates on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
It takes a village! We are grateful to Covetrus, Zoetis,Purina, Royal Canin, and Forever Friends for helping make this day extra special.
Purina and Royal Canin have long been leaders in pet health and nutrition, and we’re honored to partner with them in supporting the wellbeing of the pets we serve
Forever Friends, our trusted partner in end-of-life care, has graciously donated the Kona Ice truck for the event—a sweet way to cool down and connect with our community.
This grand opening isn’t just about a new building—it’s about continuing to grow with the families and pets who’ve trusted us over the years. We’re honored to serve the Dublin and Plain City communities.
Caring for a dog is an extremely rewarding experience, but bringing one into your home is a big adjustment – even if you have or have previously owned a dog. Whether it’s a playful young puppy, a mature adult, or a senior companion, the transition can feel overwhelming at first. The good news: a little preparation, proper vet care, and of course, patience, can go a long way in helping you and your new dog feel settled.
To set you up for success, we’ve put together a checklist to guide you through every step of taking care of your family’s latest addition, from ensuring your home is ready to getting your dog proper training and beyond.
Before You Bring Your Dog Home
Set Up a Designated Space for Your Pet: Create a safe, welcoming environment for your new pup by creating a space just for them – ideally in the location where you want them to sleep. Make sure you have a dog bed or appropriately sized crate (most dogs do well in a wire crate, but some may feel more secure in a travel-style crate with solid sides). Finally, see if you can get bedding or toys from the previous home or shelter where the dog lived, as the familiar scent will make them feel more comfortable.
Remove Hazards: Dogs of all ages can get into mischief, so make sure any cleaning supplies, medications, poisonous plants, and other toxic materials have been safely stored away.
Get their food ready: Check with the shelter, rescue, breeder, or previous owners to know which food your dog has been eating. You don’t have to stick to the same brand or type but starting them out on the same food may help ease the transition*. Keep in mind your dog may skip meals on the first day or two in their new home as they adjust. You can try mixing in some canned food to make their meals more appealing. As long as your dog is drinking water and remaining active, a temporary dip in appetite is okay.
*If you plan to switch their food, consult a veterinarian beforehand or wait until after your first vet visit. When switching diets, a common approach is to start with two-thirds of the current food and one-third of the new food for 3–4 days. Then shift to a 50/50 mix for a few more days, followed by one-third shelter food and two-thirds new food until the transition is complete.
Picking Up Your New Dog:
Bring Someone Along: Ideally you are able to bring a spouse, family member, or friend with you to pick up your new companion so that you are able to sit with them during the ride home.
Practice Car Safety: Dogs can be unpredictable in the car, making it important to safely confine your furry friend in a crate, carrier, or seatbelt harness.
Head Straight Home: Bringing your new dog straight home gives them the best chance to settle in calmly. Avoid extra errands along the way and have everything prepared so their first experience is smooth and welcoming.
When You Arrive Home:
Keep Them Leashed: Let them use the bathroom while on their leash and keep them leashed until all doors and gates are closed, and they have safely had a chance to explore.
Introduce them to other household members and pets: Continue to use the leash to slowly and carefully introduce them to children and other pets. Introduce them to other pets outside on neutral ground. This should be a quick meet and greet. When they are back inside, keep pets separate until they familiarize themselves with each other’s scents.
Next Steps After Bringing a New Dog Home
Expect an Adjustment Period: A new environment can create feelings of fear, excitement, and anxiety, and dogs need time to get used to their new normal. Avoid overwhelming them with too much attention right away and allow them to get to know you at their own pace. Calm walks and quiet bonding moments are a great way to help them feel safe and secure.
Choose a Veterinarian: If you haven’t already selected a veterinarian, now’s the perfect time to start building that relationship and book your first appointment. For puppies, the first visit may include vaccinations, microchipping, and a discussion about spaying or neutering. Older dogs, on the other hand, will benefit from a full health assessment and a personalized wellness plan. Read our blog for more information on What to Expect at Your First Vet Visit.
At Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic, we recommend that all new patients come in for a complete pet wellness exam. While we personalize care for every pet, we also provide general recommendations depending on their stage of life to make sure your dog receives exactly what they need. Learn more about our recommendations for your pet on our website.
Ensure Proper Identification: Dogs can be master escape artists, so don’t fully rely on a leash or fenced-in backyard to keep them from running away.Prioritize getting them a collar with a clear ID tag first and consider getting them microchipped if they aren’t already for added peace of mind. Most rescue organizations, shelters, and vet clinics are equipped with scanners that make it easy to identify microchipped pets if they become lost. For more on the process and benefits of microchipping, read our article:The Modern Method for Pet Safety.
Prioritize Exercise: Create an exercise routine that aligns with your dog’s energy level and breed recommendations to keep them physically and mentally engaged. Use enrichment activities like interactive puzzles, games, and toys to provide mental stimulation. A regular exercise and play routines help your dog feel secure and support healthy behavior.
Regular Appointments/Grooming: Along with regular veterinary appointments, establish a grooming routine that keeps your dog’s coat and skin healthy. Each breed has different grooming needs, so take time to learn what your dog requires. Dental care, for example, is an often-overlooked part of a dog’s grooming routine despite having a significant impact on your dog’s overall health. Good oral hygiene helps prevent more serious health issues down the road. To learn more, visit our blog: Caring For Your Pet’s Dental Health.
Quality Time: While it’s important to give your dog some space early on, dedicating time to bond with them is also essential. In the first days and weeks, you can build trust through gentle play, shared routines, and positive reinforcement (yes, that means treats!). It is also important to remember that building trust and adapting to a new environment takes time – especially with shelter dogs or those that have been neglected and abused. Continue to show patience, consistency, and unconditional love throughout this process.
Behavioral Observation: As your new pup gets more comfortable at home, keep a close eye on their behavior. Signs of stress, anxiety, or discomfort may surface as they settle in. If you’re unsure what’s normal or how to help, reach out to a professional or read our article on understanding your dog’s behavior.
Consider Professional Training: If your dog is showing signs of behavioral issues or you simply want to learn how to better communicate with them, reward-based training can help. Our partners at Buckeye Dog Training offer all in-house training to help dogs struggling with basic obedience to separation anxiety and aggression.
Dog ownership has a learning curve, but there are many helpful resources and dedicated professionals that can help you navigate the ins and outs as a new pet parent – including the Faithful Friends team. From wellness exams to dental care and surgical services, we’re proud to be part of your journey.
