1
Wellness Exams
Year after year, the data has shown that pets who get annual wellness exams live longer, healthier lives. At your puppy's first visit, our friendly, gentle doctors will give your new puppy a head-to-tail examination and discuss with you any concerns. At the following puppy visits, we will track their weight, growth, discuss diet, preventative care and everything your puppy needs to grow up healthy and happy.
2
Vaccines
Routine vaccinations can not only save your puppy’s life, but they can save you thousands of dollars in emergency care for preventable diseases. Additionally, most groomers, doggy day cares and trainers require core vaccinations, and the Massachusetts law requires that puppies and kittens receive a rabies vaccine by the time they are six months old.
*The Vaccines for Life Program*
At Marion Animal Hospital, we are proud to be one of only three hospitals in Massachusetts to offer the Vaccines for Life program. This special program dramatically reduces the cost of keeping your puppy's vaccines up-to-date.
3
Fleas, Ticks and Parasites
Fleas, ticks, and internal parasites aren’t just annoying—they can cause serious health issues for your puppy. At Marion Animal Hospital, we recommend safe, effective preventatives to keep your pup protected year-round. As an independently owned and operated practice, we’re not bound by corporate sales sheets, or one-size-fits-all care. That gives us the flexibility to recommend the best parasite prevention plan for your puppy—based on their age, lifestyle, environment, and your preferences. Our team is happy to help you choose the right products, because we care about long-term health, not quick fixes. Prevention is easier (and less itchy) than treatment!
4
Pet Insurance
Unexpected vet bills can be stressful—especially if your puppy gets sick or injured. Pet health insurance helps you plan for the unpredictable by covering a portion of emergency care, illnesses, and even some routine visits, depending on the plan. At Marion Animal Hospital, we don’t sell insurance, but we do recommend exploring your options early, while your pet is young and healthy.
As an independently owned hospital, we’re not tied to any one provider, which means we can offer honest, experience-based advice about what plans actually help our clients the most. We’ve seen firsthand how having coverage can make it easier to say “yes” to the care your pup needs, without the added stress of cost. A little planning now can save a lot of heartache (and financial stress) later—and give you peace of mind as your puppy grows. Word to the wise; Pet Insurance works best if you do not change providers; do your research and commit to staying with one insurance provider.
5
Training & Potty Training
The early weeks are key to setting your puppy up for success! Consistent, positive training helps build good habits and a strong bond between you and your pup. Crate training and regular potty breaks (especially after meals, naps, and playtime) are essential for house training. At Marion Animal Hospital, we’ve put together these handouts with proven tips on potty training, basic commands, and using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate the wins—puppies learn best when it’s fun!
Favorite eBook: The Perfect Puppy in 7 days by Dr. Sophia Yin
6
Spay / Neuter
Sterilization is a Loving Choice - Spaying or neutering your puppy is one of the most important steps you can take to support their long-term health and happiness. It helps prevent certain cancers, reduces unwanted behaviors, and plays a big role in reducing pet overpopulation. At Marion Animal Hospital, we believe sterilization is an act of care—not just for your pet, but for the wider pet community. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you choose the right timing for your puppy’s procedure.
7
Dental Care
Good dental habits start early! Puppyhood is the perfect time to get your dog comfortable with having their mouth handled and teeth brushed. Just like people, dogs benefit from regular dental care to prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, and more serious issues down the road. At Marion Animal Hospital, we can show you how to make brushing easy and recommend dental chews or products that actually work. A healthy mouth means a healthier, happier pup for years to come. Remember to make it fun for your puppy!
8
Pet Ownership
We’ve put together a few helpful handouts to support you and your pup on this new adventure. One covers proper socialization—how to gently introduce your dog to new people, pets, and places to help build confidence and prevent future behavior issues. Another shares best practices for interacting with dogs, whether it's your own or someone else's, to keep everyone safe and happy. And our responsible pet ownership guide offers everyday tips on caring for your dog’s health, safety, and well-being. These quick reads are full of practical advice and backed by our team’s experience—because we want every pet to have a great start.
9
Emergency Prep: Microchips,
Supplies & Services
At your puppy's first exam, we'll discuss making sure they're properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos). We highly recommend microchipping and can do it at that first visit.
Here we’ve put together a handy emergency guide with important local and national phone numbers (including 24/7 emergency veterinary care), plus a checklist of supplies to always have ready for your puppy. From first aid essentials to what to pack in a go-bag, this handout helps you stay calm, act quickly, and keep your pup safe.