Worming: We use Safe Guard Brand (fenbendazole) wormer on our puppies. They are wormed for the first time at 2 weeks of age, and are wormed once weekly until they leave our care. The puppies' dam is also wormed once weekly while she is with the pups. Once weaning has occurred, the dam is returned to our once monthly worming schedule for adult dogs. It is important to know that worms can be highly detrimental to your puppy's health. Work with your vet to establish a good worming schedule and stick to it. You will be rewarded with a happy, healthy puppy.

Vaccines: Circle C Aussies uses the Schering - Plough 6 way puppy vaccine that provides immunity against: Canine Distemper, Adrenovirus Type 2, Coronavirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus (MLV and KV). We vaccinate in the 5th week and booster time is around 8 weeks.

Feeding your Aussie:

It is a common misconception that pet food companies spend lots of money researching what is most healthy for your pet. There is actually a fine line between what is best for the dog and what is best for making a profitable product. Meat is expensive, and many pet food companies look to protein alternatives like meat by-product meal, bone meal, and in some cases poultry by-product meal (feather meal). While these sources boost the protein levels on the label, some of these proteins are not digestible for your dog. On top of the meat dilemma, one must also be aware of harmful chemical preservatives. BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin are used throughout the pet food industry with little to no regard for the fact that these are carcinogens and also cause liver damage. While every industry has its "dirty little secrets", one has only to do a small amount of research to unearth plenty of skeletons in the commercial pet food closet.

While an all natural meat, bone, and vegetable diet is best for your dog (we recommend Dr Pitcairn's method), few working families have the time to devote to putting together meals for the dog in addition to the hectic goings on of modern life. This does not mean that you are a bad pet owner! When selecting a commercial kibble for your dog, stay away from grocery store brands as a general rule. Select from brands sold at your local feed store instead, and pay attention to the labels. Be certain that the kibble contains no BHA, BHT, or Ethoxyquin. Check to be sure that the product is preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols (vitamin e). We have had excellent results with Diamond products, but they are by no means the only producers of quality food. Expensive does not equal quality, so check the label and when in doubt - call us!

Please note: Any dog who eats a commercial kibble should be offered fresh treats and bones so that their chewing needs are met. We also recommend top dressing your dog's kibble with low fat yogurt. The live bacteria are beneficial to your dog's digestive tract, and the treat is much appreciated. Be sure to check with your vet to make sure that your dog's nutritional needs are being adequately met.