Adopting a puppy is a big responsibility. Not only are you agreeing to provide loving care for it throughout its life, but you're also agreeing to provide it with the care it needs for a healthy start. Starting your puppy out right will ensure that it has the opportunity to thrive. In addition to the warm bed and proper food you'll give your puppy, here are four specific needs you should take care of as soon as you have your new companion:

Vaccinations

If your puppy hasn't had its first set of shots by the time you take it home, you should schedule an appointment with the veterinarian as soon as possible. Those early vaccinations are crucial in protecting the health of your puppy. Vaccinations protect your puppy against debilitating diseases such as parvo, distemper, and heartworm. Not only that, but rabies shots help protect you, the community at large, and other dogs from contracting the deadly disease. Once you have your puppy, make sure you keep it current on all vaccinations recommended by the veterinarian.

Deworming

If your puppy wasn't well-cared for while it was with its previous owner, it could have worms. Unfortunately, worms can be particularly harmful to small puppies. They can deprive puppies of their vital nutrients, and cause severe intestinal distress that can lead to death. As soon as you get your puppy home, give it a deworming treatment. Follow the instructions on the package for follow-up treatments. If you're not sure how to properly deworm your puppy, consult with your veterinarian.

Microchip

When you bring your puppy home, it's not going to be familiar with the neighborhood. If it runs away, it's not going to know how to get home. To protect your puppy, and ensure that it doesn't end up being listed as a stray in an animal shelter, have it micro-chipped as soon as you can. A microchip will ensure that your local animal shelter will be able to contact you should your puppy wander away from home.

Spay or Neuter

When you get your puppy, you should schedule an appointment to have it spayed or neutered. There are health and behavioral benefits to having reproductive surgery performed on your puppy. First, reproductive surgery can prevent certain types of cancers in dogs. Second, reproductive surgery can prevent roaming and aggressive behavior. Talk to your veterinarian about the right time to have your puppy spayed or neutered.

Contact an animal hospital like Columbine Animal Hospital & Emergency Clinic for more information and assistance.