It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. With all of the bows and decorations going up around homes and businesses, a Christmas puppy or kitten is soon to appear. As soon as the wrapping comes off, the responsibility begins. Young animals need special diets for their growing bodies. Puppies and kittens can be infected with worms before they are born and even while they are nursing from the mother. Deworming at an early age is recommended to help control those infections. Just like children, puppies and kittens need vaccinations to help protect them against viruses. The first milk from the mother helps to protect for a short time, but will also make a vaccine not as effective. Several shots need to be given at three week intervals for best protection. Rabies may be the only vaccine required by law for your pet, but it is not the only virus that can hurt them. It is also recommended to have your pet examined by a veterinarian for heart murmurs and other problems that could have been present since birth. Talk to your veterinarian to set up a vaccination protocol for your new addition. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.