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Routine lab tests catch hidden health issues early, helping your pet live a longer, healthier life. Schedule preventive screenings today for peace of mind and personalized care.


Beyond Vaccines: Why Routine Lab Testing Is Essential for Your Pet

As summer heats up, so does the risk of dehydration in pets. Dogs and cats, just like humans, need proper hydration to stay healthy, especially in the scorching days of July. Whether heading out for a beach day or just enjoying a backyard BBQ, keeping your furry friends cool, hydrated, and safe is crucial. In this post, we'll explore the signs of dehydration, tips for keeping your pets hydrated, and how your veterinary clinic can help.

Veterinary Advice: Spotting and Preventing Pet Dehydration This Summer

Whether you're a new cat parent or a seasoned pro, this guide has everything you need to help your cat thrive all month.



Ultimate Guide to Cat Care: Keep Your Feline Happy and Healthy

March is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month - learn how to protect your pets from hidden household dangers like toxic foods, plants, and chemicals. This guide covers key risks, emergency tips, and prevention strategies to keep your furry friends safe.



Toxic to Pets: Household Dangers Every Owner Should Know

As our beloved pets age, their healthcare needs evolve significantly. While regular veterinary care is essential for pets of all ages, senior pets require a more tailored approach to ensure they enjoy a healthy, active life in their golden years. Explore the differences between senior pet wellness and regular veterinary care, highlighting the importance of specialized attention for aging pets.

Understanding Senior Pet Wellness Care: A Guide for Pet Owners

Gardner Animal Care Center

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Proudly serving the citizens of Gardner and it's surrounding areas.


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Since 1988, the goal of the veterinarians and staff at Gardner Animal Care Center has been to assemble and maintain a veterinary health care team committed to providing exceptional client service and veterinary health care. The Gardner Animal Care Center displays an unrivaled commitment to our clients through continuing education, technological advances in veterinary medicine and service, and, most importantly, providing compassionate care to all pets entrusted to us. We care for pets throughout central Massachusetts and serve the areas of Gardner, Fitchburg, Worcester, Leominster, Athol, Rindge, and Keene, NH.

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The new year often inspires us to make positive changes, and for some, that might mean adding a new furry friend to the family. Whether you’ve just welcomed a playful puppy or a curious kitten, there’s a lot to learn in these first few months together.Here’s a quick guide from our veterinary team to help you and your new pet start the year off on the right paw!1. First Things First: The Initial Vet Visit – Just like newborns, puppies, and kittens need a complete health check soon after arriving at their new home. Your first vet visit will typically cover :<ul><li>A comprehensive physical exam: We’ll assess your pet’s overall health and check for any initial signs of concern.</li><li>Vaccinations: Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccines to protect them from diseases like parvovirus and distemper in dogs and panleukopenia in cats. Your vet will create a vaccination schedule tailored to their needs.</li><li>Parasite prevention: Puppies and kittens are prone to parasites like fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. Starting parasite prevention early keeps them comfortable and healthy.</li><li>Microchipping: A microchip helps reunite you with your pet if they ever get lost. We recommend microchipping during one of their initial visits for an extra layer of security.</li></ul>2. Nutrition Matters: Feeding Your Puppy or Kitten –&nbsp; Young pets have different nutritional needs than adults, so choosing the right food is crucial. Here’s what you should know:<ul><li>Age-appropriate food: Look for food labeled specifically for puppies or kittens, formulated to support growth and development.</li><li>Portion control: Puppies and kittens have small stomachs, so they must be fed several small meals throughout the day.</li><li>Avoid “people food”: Many human foods can be toxic to pets. Stick to a diet of high-quality pet food and consult your vet about any treats or supplements.</li></ul>Your veterinarian can help you select a brand and feeding schedule that suits your pet’s age, breed, and activity level.3. Training Tips: Building Good Habits Early –&nbsp; Puppies and kittens are at an ideal age to start learning good behaviors. Here are some training tips:<ul><li>Consistency is key: Establish a routine that includes regular feeding, bathroom breaks, and playtime.</li><li>Reward positive behaviors: Use treats or affection to reinforce good behaviors, whether using the litter box or sitting on command.</li><li>Socialization: Gradually expose your pet to new environments, people, and other animals. Supervised playtime with other vaccinated dogs can build confidence for puppies, while kittens benefit from gentle handling and exposure to new sights and sounds.</li></ul>Early training sets the foundation for a well-adjusted, happy adult pet.4. Pet-Proofing Your Home – Like baby-proofing, creating a safe space for your new pet is essential. Here’s a quick checklist:<ul><li>Remove hazards: Keep small items, electrical cords, and toxic household plants out of reach.</li><li>Secure trash cans: Many puppies and kittens are curious and may be tempted to rummage through the garbage.</li><li>Create a safe space: Set up a cozy area with a bed, toys, food, and water bowls where your pet can feel secure.</li></ul>Pet-proofing your home helps prevent accidents and keeps your furry friends safe as they explore.5. The Importance of Routine Checkups – While puppies and kittens require frequent vet visits initially, maintaining annual checkups is key to long-term health. During each visit, we’ll monitor:<ul><li>Growth and development: Ensuring your pet is on track for age and breed.</li><li>Dental health: Dental care starts early! We’ll help you establish a brushing routine and provide tips for healthy teeth.</li><li>Behavioral development: Our team can assist with training challenges and suggest resources or trainers if needed.</li></ul>6. A New Year of Love and Companionship –&nbsp; A new pet brings so much joy to a household. This special bond you’re creating is just the beginning of a wonderful relationship, from playtime to cuddle sessions.If you have questions or concerns, remember that our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://southcherokee.net/contact/">veterinary team is here</a> to help guide you. This New Year, let’s make every moment with your new pet safe, happy, and healthy! ____________________________________________________________________ Ready to start your journey as a new pet parent? <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://southcherokee.net/woodstock-ga-veterinary-appointment/">Schedule</a> your pet’s first veterinary visit today! Our team is excited to support you and your new friend as you embark on this adventure together.

Welcoming a new puppy or kitten? Start the year right with our vet-approved guide to pet care, covering health, nutrition, training, and more for a happy, healthy beginning.



A Guide to Your New Puppy or Kitten: Health, Training, and Tips for 2025

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We love educating our clients, that's why we have curated and shared posts filled with helpful information regarding pet care.

Gardner Animal Care Center accepts Cash, Checks and Credit/Debit cards along with other financing options mentioned bellow.

We are pleased to offer access to several financing options.

Receive Automatic Reminders, Request Appointments 24/7,Your Pet's Organizer App and Save Notes, Pics & Much More!

Download our app and connect with us on PetDesk. Maintaining your pet's health from your mobile device has never been easier.

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Gardner Animal Care Center has been a trusted source of comprehensive veterinary care since 1988.

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Safe, supervised care for your pet while you're away - with plenty of attention, play, and comfort.


Boarding & Daycare

A quick microchip gives your pet a permanent ID and increases their chance of being reunited if lost.


Microchipping

Treat and prevent internal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms with trusted care.


Deworming

Deworming & Parasite Control

Spaying or neutering helps prevent health issues, unwanted litters, and certain behavior challenges.


Spay & Neuter

Protect your pet from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and more with year-round parasite prevention plans.


Parasite Prevention

Get expert guidance on your pet's nutrition, weight, and feeding to support lifelong wellness.


Nutrition & Diet Counseling

Protect your pet from preventable diseases with customized vaccine schedules for every life stage.

Vaccinations

Keep your pet healthy with routine wellness exams, early detection, and personalized care plans.

Wellness & Exams

We care for exotic pets with species-specific expertise and heart.


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Non-invasive laser therapy helps reduce pain, speed healing, and improve mobility for pets of all ages.


A Guide to Your New Puppy or Kitten: Health, Training, and Tips for 2025

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