Epic Tails Veterinary Clinic

At Epic Tails Veterinary Clinic, we’re proud to offer compassionate, low-stress veterinary care for the beloved pets of Charlotte, NC and surrounding areas. Conveniently located at 3100 S Tryon St, our modern clinic is open six days a week and is dedicated to the wellness, comfort, and longevity of your furry, feathered, and scaled family members. We provide expert care for a wide variety of pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, ferrets, rats, mice, pocket pets, birds, pet chickens and ducks, and reptiles. Whether your companion needs routine wellness services or advanced diagnostics, our skilled and friendly team is here to help. Our services include wellness exams, sick visits, vaccinations, microchipping, pet travel and health certificates, nutritional counseling, and behavioral support. For pets needing pain relief or chronic care, we offer allergy and dermatology treatment, Solensia and Librela injections for osteoarthritis, herbal medicine, and advanced therapies such as cold laser therapy. We’re also equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools including digital X-ray, ultrasound, genetic testing, and in-house lab services for parasite testing and prevention. Our surgical offerings include routine spay and neuter, dental cleanings, and other soft tissue surgeries. We’re passionate about senior pet care and tailor our approach to support aging pets with comfort and dignity. Epic Tails is more than an animal clinic — we’re your dedicated partner in pet health. We also provide emergency veterinary care and urgent appointments when your pet needs us most. If you're searching for expert, compassionate veterinary care in Charlotte, NC — including senior pet care, laser therapy, pet dentistry, or emergency services — visit Epic Tails Veterinary Clinic. We look forward to meeting you and your pet soon!

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What Preventive Services Should Cats Receive Each Year?

Cats need annual preventive services to stay protected from illness and maintain overall wellness. Routine checkups, vaccinations, bloodwork, dental evaluations, and parasite prevention all contribute to healthier lives. Preventive care also helps identify medical conditions before symptoms become severe. Learn which cat preventive services are recommended each year for optimal feline health.

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11 Monthly At-Home Pet Health Checks Every Veterinarian Recommends

Learn 11 simple at-home pet health checks vets recommend to detect issues early and keep your dog or cat healthy with easy monthly care rout

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How Pet Diagnostic Care Helps Detect Health Issues Early

Learn how pet diagnostic care helps detect health issues early, leading to better treatment and a longer, healthier life for your pet.

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Top Vet-Recommended Tips for Senior Pet Care

Keep your senior pet healthy and comfortable with vet-approved tips on diet, joint care, dental health, regular check-ups, and overall well-

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How to Care for Your Puppy: Vet-Approved Tips for the First Year

Learn how to care for your puppy in their first year. From feeding to training, follow our vet-approved puppy care guide to ensure a happy,

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How Veterinarians Help Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy for Life

Discover how veterinarians contribute to your pet's long-term health and happiness. Learn essential care tips and why regular visits matter

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What Are the Best Foods for Senior Cats? Expert Nutrition Guide

Discover the best foods for senior cats, essential nutrients, and feeding tips to support healthy aging and overall feline wellness.

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Essential Dog Nutrition: What to Feed Your Furry Friend

Discover the best foods to feed your dog with this veterinarian-approved nutrition guide. Learn how to choose the right diet for your dog's

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8 Common Signs That Your Dog Needs to See a Vet

Learn the common signs that indicate your dog may need to see a vet. Stay informed and ensure your pet’s health with expert advice on recogn

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How Veterinarians Safely Control Pain in Dogs and Cats

Learn how veterinarians safely manage pain in dogs and cats using modern medications, gentle therapies, and personalized care for better com

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Annual Pet Wellness Exams: The Key to a Long, Healthy Life

Learn why annual pet wellness exams are essential for your pet’s long-term health. Explore what to expect, benefits, and tips for ensuring a

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How Long Does It Take a Female Cat to Recover After Spaying?

Learn how long female cats take to recover after spaying, what to expect during healing, and essential tips to keep your cat comfortable and

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Kitten Care 101: How to Take Care of a Kitten the Right Way

Learn how to take care of a kitten with expert tips on feeding, training, and health to raise a happy, healthy feline companion from day one

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Cat Dental Care: Best Ways to Keep Your Cat’s Teeth Healthy

Learn the best ways to care for your cat’s teeth, prevent dental disease, and keep their mouth healthy with simple, effective at-home and ve

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What Is the Best Food to Feed a New Puppy?

Bringing home a new puppy is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences for any pet parent. However, with that joy comes a big responsibility — making sure your puppy gets the right nutrition to grow healthy and strong. The food you choose during these early months can shape your puppy’s overall development, immune system, and energy levels. Understanding what to feed, how often, and why nutrition matters is the first step toward giving your new furry family member the best start in life.

Why Proper Nutrition Matters for Puppies

Puppies grow at an incredibly fast rate. Their bones, muscles, brain, and organs all develop rapidly during the first year. Because of this, puppies need a diet rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Proper nutrition doesn’t just promote physical growth — it also supports strong immunity, healthy digestion, and a shiny coat.

Moreover, the right food ensures your puppy’s body develops proportionally, reducing the risk of joint issues, obesity, or nutrient deficiencies later in life.

Choosing Between Dry, Wet, and Raw Puppy Food

There are several types of dog food available, each with its benefits. Understanding the differences helps you make an informed choice.

1. Dry Puppy Food (Kibble)

Dry food is a popular and convenient choice for many dog owners. It supports dental health by reducing plaque buildup and is easy to store. Look for kibble specifically formulated for puppies — it contains the right balance of nutrients, proteins, and fats for growing dogs.

2. Wet Puppy Food

Wet food is softer and often more flavorful, making it ideal for picky eaters or very young puppies transitioning from milk. It also helps keep your puppy hydrated. However, wet food can spoil faster and may be more expensive in the long run.

3. Raw or Fresh Diets

Some owners prefer feeding raw or fresh food diets. While these can provide excellent nutrition, they must be balanced carefully to ensure all essential nutrients are included. Before starting a raw diet, consult your veterinarian to avoid potential health risks associated with unbalanced feeding or bacterial contamination.

Key Nutrients Every Puppy Needs

Regardless of the type of food you choose, make sure it includes the following key nutrients:

Protein: Essential for muscle development and tissue repair.

Fat: Provides energy and supports brain development.

Calcium and Phosphorus: Strengthen bones and teeth.

Omega Fatty Acids: Improve skin, coat, and cognitive function.

Vitamins and Minerals: Boost immunity and overall health.

Additionally, check the label for the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement. It ensures the food meets the nutritional standards for puppy growth and development.

How Often Should You Feed Your Puppy?

Feeding frequency depends on your puppy’s age, breed, and size. Generally, young puppies need smaller, more frequent meals to sustain their energy and prevent low blood sugar.

8–12 weeks old: Feed four times a day

3–6 months old: Feed three times a day

6–12 months old: Transition to two meals per day

Always provide fresh, clean water throughout the day. Avoid overfeeding — while those puppy eyes may be hard to resist, excess calories can lead to obesity and joint issues.

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Puppy

Certain human foods can be toxic or harmful to dogs. Keep these far away from your puppy’s reach:

Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine

Onions and garlic

Grapes and raisins

Avocados

Cooked bones

Alcohol or raw dough

Additionally, avoid feeding table scraps regularly, as they can disrupt your puppy’s balanced diet and encourage begging behavior.

Transitioning to Adult Dog Food

Around 12 months of age, most dogs can transition to adult food. Larger breeds may need to stay on puppy formulas for a few extra months since their growth phase lasts longer. Transition gradually over a week by mixing increasing portions of adult food with the puppy food. This helps prevent digestive upset and ensures a smooth change.

Feeding your new puppy the right food is one of the most important steps in supporting their growth, health, and happiness. A balanced diet tailored to your puppy’s age, size, and breed ensures they get all the nutrients they need for strong bones, a healthy coat, and lasting vitality.

At Epic Tails Veterinary Clinic, we specialize in customized puppy care in Charlotte, NC, offering expert nutrition guidance and health monitoring to help your puppy thrive. Our compassionate team is here to ensure your newest family member gets the best start in life — because a healthy beginning leads to a happy future.

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How to Clean Your Dog’s Teeth: A Simple Beginner’s Guide

Learn how to clean your dog's teeth at home with this step-by-step beginner’s guide. Improve your dog’s dental health and prevent oral disea

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Why Comprehensive Diagnostic Care Is Vital for Your Pet’s Health

Discover why comprehensive diagnostic care is crucial for your pet’s health. Learn how early detection and preventive diagnostics can ensure