PetThis new pet care checklist gives dog and cat owners in Canada a simple routine to follow — the daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual tasks that keep a new puppy or kitten healthy without anything slipping through the cracks. Tick items off on screen, or print the whole thing for the fridge.
Not veterinary advice. This is a general planner to help you build good routines. Confirm vaccine, parasite-prevention, diet and dental schedules with your own veterinarian — they depend on your pet, its age, and where you live.
🐕 Dog care checklist
Every day
Every week
Every month
Every quarter
Every year
🐈 Cat care checklist
Every day
Every week
Every month
Every quarter
Every year
Plan for the bills before they arrive
The annual line items — exams, dental, vaccines — are predictable. The four-figure emergencies aren't. See what care actually costs in our Canadian vet-cost guides, and whether coverage makes sense in is pet insurance worth it?
Frequently asked questions
What should be on a new puppy or kitten checklist?
A new pet checklist should group care into routines you can actually keep: daily (food, fresh water, exercise or play, a quick health glance), weekly (grooming, bowl cleaning, bedding), monthly (parasite prevention, nail trims, weight check), quarterly (deep cleaning, insurance and microchip review) and annual (a wellness exam, vaccines and dental as your vet advises). This page has separate dog and cat versions you can print.
How often does a dog or cat need a vet visit?
Most healthy adult dogs and cats need a wellness exam once a year; puppies and kittens need a series of visits in their first months, and senior pets (dogs 7+, cats 10+) benefit from twice-yearly checks. Vaccine, parasite-prevention and dental schedules should follow your own veterinarian's advice for your pet and where you live in Canada.
Is this checklist veterinary advice?
No. It's a general care planner to help new owners build good routines. It isn't a substitute for veterinary advice — always confirm vaccine, parasite, diet and dental schedules with your own vet.