Welcome to the very first episode of The Independent Vet, the podcast that helps you give your fuzzy family the best life possible.

In this episode, Dr. Beth Barrett—veterinarian and owner of Barrett Veterinary Practice—answers one of the most common questions new pet parents ask:

"What do I need to know when bringing home a new puppy or kitten?"

Dr. Beth shares what matters most in those first few weeks, including:

• When to schedule your first veterinary visit

• Puppy and kitten vaccination timelines

• Parasite prevention and deworming

• Feeding basics and nutrition tips

• How to start socialization and routines early

• Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Whether this is your first pet or your fifth, you'll walk away with practical advice and peace of mind.

Resources Mentioned:

• Book your first puppy or kitten appointment: https://barrettvet.ca

• Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barrettveterinarypractice

• Learn more about Barrett Veterinary Practice: https://barrettvet.ca

About Dr. Beth Barrett:

Dr. Beth is the founder and owner of Barrett Veterinary Practice in Rocky View, Alberta. She brings years of hands-on experience, warmth, and real-world knowledge to help you care for your pets with confidence. She specializes in dogs, cats, horses—and yes, even goats.

About the Show:

The Independent Vet is a bi-weekly podcast about pets, people, and veterinary practice. Hosted by Michael Dargie, each episode features the expertise of Dr. Beth Barrett and is designed to help you make informed, compassionate decisions for the animals in your life.