Welcome to Cross Street Veterinary Hospital
Helpful Information for Your First Visit
Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting and heartwarming experience — but it can also come with lots of questions. At Cross Street Veterinary Hospital in Winchester, MA, we’re here to help you and your new companion start off strong with expert guidance, compassionate care, and trustworthy resources.
This page is your go-to guide for new puppy and kitten owners, as well as those welcoming adopted or rescued pets into the family.
Your Pet’s First Visit
We recommend scheduling your new pet’s first veterinary exam within the first few weeks of adoption or purchase. This initial visit helps us assess your pet’s health, begin a preventive care plan, and answer any questions you may have.
What to Bring:
- Any prior medical or vaccination records
- A list of your questions or concerns
- Fecal sample (if possible) for parasite screening
- Your pet in a secure carrier or on a leash
What to Expect
During your first visit, our team will:
- Perform a full physical exam
- Review any known medical history
- Check for parasites and infectious diseases
- Discuss vaccination schedules
- Talk about spaying/neutering
- Provide nutritional advice tailored to your pet’s needs
- Answer your questions about training, grooming, and behavior
We’re happy to provide guidance every step of the way and help you feel confident about your pet’s wellness journey.
Recommended Vaccination & Wellness Schedules
Every pet is different, but early veterinary care is essential. Here are general guidelines for puppies and kittens:
Puppies:
- First vaccines: 6–8 weeks of age
- Boosters: Every 3–4 weeks until ~16 weeks old
- Rabies: ~12–16 weeks old
- Monthly parasite prevention
- Spay/neuter: To be determined based on breed and lifestyle
Kittens:
- First vaccines: 6–8 weeks of age
- Boosters: Every 3–4 weeks until ~16 weeks old
- Rabies: ~12–16 weeks old
- Monthly parasite prevention
- Spay/neuter: ~5–6 months old
Helpful Tipsfor New Pet Ownersccc
Create a Safe Home
Pet-proof your living space to avoid accidents.
Start Training Early
Establish routines, crate training, and socialization from day one.
Choose High-Quality Food
Ask us for nutrition recommendations by breed, size, and age.
Stay Consistent with Care
Regular veterinary visits are key to long-term health.
Set Up ID
Microchipping and visible ID tags increase your pet’s chance of being returned if lost.
Trusted Resources
We’ll be adding more downloadable and educational resources soon. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to call or email with your questions — we love supporting new pet parents.