By |Last Updated: October 30, 2025|
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Is there anything on the planet more adorable than kittens and puppies? Unfortunately, cuteness doesn’t prevent them from becoming sick. If you need a kitten exam or a puppy exam from a vet near you in the Fontana, CA, area, our veterinary team at Jurupa Hills Animal Hospital can help.

Your Pet’s First Vet Exam

More often than not, knowing what to expect ahead of time can lessen the trepidation and discomfort of an unknown or new experience. Here is a quick overview of what most pet owners can expect on their first visit to the veterinarian with a baby kitten or puppy.

The Exam

It is common for pets, and in particular for new kittens and puppies, to get a thorough evaluation and exam on their first visit. This can include a head to tail exam that will cover examining the nose, mouth, eyes, ears, and throat, along with checking the heart and lungs, and more. Much like humans, early detection can be helpful in different situations.

Vaccinations and Preventative Care

Along with the exam, we may provide your pet with different types of vaccinations to help make sure he is protected again dangerous diseases. Once we have provided the initial vaccines, we will develop a vaccines schedule for your pet so that he can stay protected into the future.

We may also provide advice on parasite prevention to help keep your pet safe from fleas, ticks, and heartworm. These parasites can be harmful to your pet’s overall health and, in the case of heart worm, may even threaten your pet’s life. Thankfully, these parasites are easily defended against with the right type of medication.

Get Veterinarian Care, Puppy Exam, Kitten Exam, and a General Pet Exam from a Vet Near You

If you are looking for caring and professional veterinarian pet care in the Fontana, CA, area, our pet-friendly team at Jurupa Hills Animal Hospital can help. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment for you and your pet today. Call us at (909) 333-1565 for a puppy exam, kitten exam, and a general pet exam from a vet near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should bring your puppy or kitten in for their first exam as early as 6 to 8 weeks old, once they’ve had initial maternal care and started transitioning to solid food. Vets will check for congenital issues, begin vaccination protocols, and assess overall health. Early exams help set a health baseline and give you guidance on feeding, deworming, and preventive care.
A first check-up typically lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, though it can stretch longer depending on your pet’s condition or the number of questions you have. The vet will perform a full physical exam, review history, check for parasites, and may recommend tests or vaccinations. Be prepared with any records or concerns so the visit goes smoothly.
Here are useful questions to ask:

  • Which vaccinations and at what schedule does my pet need?
  • What diet and feeding plan is best for their growth?
  • When should I schedule deworming, spay/neuter, and dental care?
  • What signs of illness should I look out for?
  • How should I begin socialization, training, and exercise safely?

Asking clear questions helps you get the guidance you need to care for your new companion.

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Written by : Jurupa Hills Animal Hospital

Jurupa Hills Animal Hospital is proud to serve the Fontana, CA area for everything pet-related. Our veterinary clinic and animal hospital is run by Dr. Avtar Gill, who is a licensed, experienced Fontana veterinarian. Our team is committed to educating our clients on how to keep your pets healthy year round, with good nutrition and exercise. Jurupa Hills Animal Hospital stays on top of the latest advances in veterinary technology and above all, remembers that all animals and pets need to be treated with loving care in every check-up, procedure, or surgery.