Puppies and kittens receive immune protection (maternally derived antibodies – MDAs) by drinking their mom’s first milk called colostrum. While human babies receive immune protection from their mother before birth, puppies and kittens ONLY have these MDAs to protect them.
Why we have to be very careful between 4-12 weeks of age
Puppy and kitten immune systems are both fragile and very susceptible to infectious disease. Especially between 4-12 weeks old.
This is also when puppies and kittens may be changing homes, which can be an added potential stressor.
The Critical Period occurs when these MDAs are “used up” and yet the protective benefits of vaccination haven’t been fully achieved.
Use extra precaution with puppies and kittens
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Always assume that a young animal is susceptible to illness since they have an immature immune system.
Limit the risks. Think about pathogens (“bugs”), the environment and nutrition and how they can all impact a very young animal.
GI (digestive) system parasites such as Giardia and intestinal worms are common. They can easily be passed to puppies and kittens.
Infectious diseases like Parvovirus are VERY dangerous. It is highly contagious and survives for long periods of time in the environment.
Passive carriage:
Certain parasites, bacteria and viruses are able to survive for short or long periods of time on the outside of a pet or in the environment.
The younger the puppy or kitten, the more susceptible they are to infection.
We need to be aware of our ability to spread disease between animals. Passive carriage is one of the ways this can happen.
The immature GI system of puppies and kittens makes them more prone to digestive upset
Feeding smaller portions more frequently helps improve fecal quality.
Always assume that GI parasites along with infectious disease are possibilities in young puppies and kittens.
Protection – Make certain to keep unvaccinated puppies and kittens away from other furry friends. In addition, encourage pet parents to leave them at home.
Wash your hands – especially when you are about to handle a puppy or kitten right after doing so.
Ask if you’re not sure – don’t be afraid to ask if a puppy or kitten has received any vaccines.
John Hope President, Hope Holdings (Alexandria) Ltd.
John is the owner and President of a commercial property leasing and development company. He has served on municipal council in Alexandria and at the County level for Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.
John is past Board Chair of the Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry County Library and Glengarry Memorial Hospital Board of Directors. He also is past Vice Chair of The Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group and currently a member its Corporate Governance Committee, Conduct Review Committee and Investment Committee. He previously served on the Board of Directors for Glengarry Mutual Insurance Company from 2001 to 2013 in Alexandria, Ontario.
John currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Glengarry Archives. He is a graduate of Durham College with a diploma in business. His other interests include spending time with his family, especially time on the family boat. John has been an animal lover throughout his life, and is a enthusiastic supporter of the work of the Ontario SPCA in our region.
Fallon David District Chief of Kana:takon, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne
Fallon David is a District Chief for the Kana:takon district of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, a role she has held since 2023. She serves her community through leadership in public safety and governance, bringing a strong focus on community well-being and collaborative decision-making.
Chief David holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice, providing her with a solid foundation in human behaviour, justice systems, and community support. Her education and leadership experience inform a balanced, thoughtful approach to advocacy and policy development. Her commitment to animal welfare – encompassing health services and community engagement – is a driving force behind the campaign’s success in elevating care standards throughout the region.
Spay/Neuter Requirements
It is important to make sure your pet meets all the requirements before booking:
Must be in good physical condition, including being an appropriate weight for our program.
Bulldogs and other brachycephalic breeds must be free of any breathing difficulties.
Rabies vaccine is legally required with proof of vaccination – recommended at least two weeks before your spay/neuter appointment.
Other recommended vaccines: Feline Leukemia vaccine (FeLV), FVRCP vaccine, Bordetella vaccine, Leptospirosis and DA2PP vaccine.
Pre-anesthetic bloodwork is strongly recommended for animals over seven (7) years of age.
