When it comes to our sweet little pups or kittens, we never want to think about them getting sick or suffering in any way. While you can’t prevent any and all health issues from popping up in the first place, preventative pet health can actually decrease these instances and eliminate all the preventative ones.
A yearly checkup at the vet is just the beginning of what your dog needs to live a long and happy life. But how can you even begin? We’re here to give a complete guide to the ups and downs of canine health care, which even the most devoted dog owners may find difficult to navigate.
Preventative Pet Health 101: Get Their History
Your dog’s health might be better understood if you and your vet talk about his daily routine at home. Behavior changes in your dog may be so subtle that you won’t notice them until you’re asked pointed questions.
Does your dog eat well and go to the bathroom frequently? Is he having trouble passing urine? The veterinarian will be able to better diagnose an issue based on the information you provide.
Neutering and Spaying are Key
There are a variety of health and behavioral advantages to spaying and neutering.
Infections and some forms of cancer are avoided if this procedure is performed. Your dog’s doctor will go through these advantages as well as the optimal time for the procedure.
Immunizations According to Dog Age
There are two categories of vaccines: those considered “essential,” and those considered “elective.”
Dogs should be vaccinated against rabies, distemper, canine parvovirus, and canine adenovirus-2 (hepatitis) if they are healthy enough to be vaccinated and there are no contraindications (usually offered as a combined DAP vaccination).
Dogs who may come into contact with kennel cough, Lyme disease, leptospirosis, or canine influenza should be vaccinated.
Examinations and Tests
Healthy dogs and cats still need annual (or more frequent) checkups with the vet. More regular vet visits may be required if your dog is older or has health issues.
The need for flea and tick treatment, as well as the diagnosis of skin illnesses, may be ascertained by a dermatological examination of the hair coat (bacterial, fungal, or parasitic). The loss of hair might be an indication of a hormonal imbalance or a systemic illness.
Dental Care
It’s common knowledge that a dog’s mouth reflects its overall health. Dogs with clean mouths have a longer lifespan. Periodontal disease germs may be found in other places outside the mouth as well.
These microorganisms enter the circulatory system and spread to other vital organs, wreaking havoc on the body. Depending on the dog and other circumstances, such as preventative maintenance, teeth cleaning may be necessary every 6 months to 2 years.
The severity of a dental disease may be assessed via dental radiographs (X-rays). Your dog’s beautiful whites may be maintained with regular dental cleanings. And, with the power of great pet insurance, your wallet won’t suffer.
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Health Throughout All Dog Life Stages
In this day and age, setting up a solid preventative pet health plan for your pets couldn’t be easier. We hope that our guide has provided you with some of the big health categories to keep an eye on for your fur babies.
Next, you’ll want to check out our pets section for more information and tips on puppy exercise and much more.