One of the veterinarian’s main goals is to inform pet owners about preventative care practices that can help them avoid future medical crises. We can avoid many medical problems and enhance our pets’ well-being and longevity by making their long-term wellness a concern on an ongoing basis.
Pet Preventative Care Tips
Preventative care for your pet is essential for overall health and for preventing potentially deadly diseases. The following are tips and suggestions for pet owners to improve overall pet health and develop excellent preventative care practices.
Examinations
Also, healthy pets must have a yearly vet examination, preferably twice a year. More frequent visits might be required if the dog is older or experiences a medical problem. A dog’s visual ability can be identified by looking into his eyes. An orthopedic examination can determine whether a dog is arthritic and requires pain medication. A dermatological examination of the hair coat will identify whether or not flea and tick control is needed, as well as the presence of skin infections (bacterial, fungal, or parasitic).
Testing
The veterinarian, like a dog kennels Memphis TN, will recommend a test If your pet suffers from kennel cough and yearly heartworm blood testing. Because intestinal parasites can impact dogs and humans, a stool sample must be tested at least once (preferably twice) a year. Annual blood tests and urinalysis should be done to find organ malfunctions in their early stages. If problems are discovered, more frequent testing may be required. In tick-infested areas, screening for vector-borne illnesses such as Lyme disease or ehrlichiosis may be advised for dogs.
Dental Care
The relationship between a dog’s oral and general health is popular. In other words, dogs with clean mouths live longer. Gum illness is brought on by bacteria that leave the mouth. These organisms go into the bloodstream and infect major organs such as the kidneys, liver, and heart, where they cause severe health problems. Dogs’ teeth may need to be cleaned every 1-2 years. Still, this frequency can differ depending on different factors, including preventive care.
Parasite Prevention
In endemic locations, dogs must be given heartworm prevention medication all year. Many heartworm medications also prevent or treat intestinal parasites; some also treat fleas and ticks. A parasite prevention method for pet wellness can be customized to meet a dog’s particular needs in his environment.
Immunizations
Core and non-core or optional vaccines are the categories into which vaccinations fall. Rabies, distemper, canine parvovirus, and canine adenovirus-2 vaccinations must be given to all dogs (liver disease). Vaccination against kennel cough, Lyme illness, leptospirosis, and canine influenza may be recommended for dogs at risk of contracting these illnesses. Cat vaccinations are needed for a feline friend if you have other pets.
Weight Management
According to studies, leaner dogs live longer and have fewer wellness issues. Your veterinarian will give your dog a body problem score and make dietary and exercise suggestions to help your dog maintain a healthy BMI.
Neutering or Spaying
Spaying or neutering can have a variety of health and behavioral benefits. This surgical procedure can aid in preventing infections and some types of cancer. These advantages and the timing of your dog’s surgical procedure will be talked about with your veterinarian.
As a summary
You can discuss these topics and treatment plans with your veterinarian during your routine wellness examination. If you aren’t yet due for an exam, ensure you have enough preventative medications to treat your pet all year. And, if you aren’t already taking safety measures against pests, parasites, and diseases, now is an excellent beginning, particularly as you spend more time outside with your pet.