Do you have an upcoming appointment with our animal clinic? While your furry buddy would probably prefer to stay at home and take another snooze, regular checkups are critical to your pet’s health and well-being. This is also an excellent moment to obtain personalized care recommendations that will help you keep your beloved pet happy and healthy for as long as possible. As your Grange Hill East, ON veterinarians, we are always delighted to answer inquiries!
Here are a few things you could ask about:
What Types of Food Should I Give My Pet?
You don’t have to spend a fortune on pet food, but you should ensure that your pet is getting a nutritious, nourishing diet that fulfills their individual needs and is appropriate for their age, health, and lifestyle.
We have a few tips on this:
- Develop the habit of reading labels. Choose items that include substances you can recognize. For dogs and cats, the label should identify meat, fish, or poultry first. Avoid items with lengthy lists of unidentified substances.
- Always make adjustments gradually, over the course of several days.
- Be mindful of portion sizes!
Check with your Grange Hill East, ON veterinarian frequently, as your pet’s demands will alter over time.
How Much Exercise Does My Pet Require?
This one is primarily applicable to dogs. Cats’ workouts are largely self-regulated. (They also consider catching Zs to be a legitimate form of exercise, but that’s a separate discussion.)
Doggy fitness requirements vary greatly from pup to pup. Size is one consideration. A Chihuahua may receive enough exercise simply by dashing around on its small legs. A Golden Retriever may require one hour or more of intense activity per day.
Size is not the only factor at play here. Your pet’s breed and physiological characteristics are also important. Brachys, such as pugs, should never be urged to run, jump, or swim because their small airways lead them to lose their breath quickly. Jumping and standing can also be hazardous for larger dogs.
What Vaccinations Do My Pets Need?
When it comes to viruses and diseases, there is no way to protect your pet from every potential threat, but vaccines are available for many of the most prevalent ones.
We recommend that all dogs and cats receive the essential immunizations, known as core vaccines.
Dogs:
- Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
- The canine adenovirus (CAV)
- Canine Parvovirus 2 (CPV-2):
- Rabies
Cats:
- Feline parvovirus (FPV).
- Feline calicivirus (FCV).
- Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)
Non-core immunizations may also be suggested by your veterinarian. Kennels, airlines, groomers, and daycares frequently require the Bordetella vaccine, thus it is commonly suggested. Your pet may also benefit from non-core immunizations such as the lepto vaccine, rattlesnake vaccines, and others.
How Are My Pet’s Teeth?
Dental health is equally vital for humans and pets. Fluffy and Fido cannot clean their own choppers, nor can they schedule cleanings or other dental care. However, abscesses, gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, infections, and misalignments can be excruciatingly painful and lead to serious infections.
Does My Pet Need Preventatives?
Fleas, ticks, and heartworms are microscopic parasites that can cause serious difficulties. Some infestations can potentially be deadly. In some situations, your pet may need to be examined before beginning a specific regimen. Heartworm is one such example. Because anti-infestation products do not destroy live worms, if Fido is already infested, he will require treatment rather than simply preventive measures.
We cannot stress the significance of a solid preventative care plan. Protecting your pet from parasites and infections is less expensive, easier, and more effective than treating them. It is also much more comfortable for your pet.
Should I Enroll My Pet In A Wellness Care Plan Or Insurance?
Wellness plans and insurance complement each other, but they are not synonymous. Insurance is intended to help cover the costs of unexpected illnesses and injuries. Wellness plans are designed to cover the expense of frequent preventative care. Your veterinarian can provide valuable information about this.
How often should I bathe my pet?
Pet bathing and grooming requirements also differ greatly. A dog with short, smooth fur may only need a bath once or twice a month, whereas one with thick hair may require more frequent bathing. You don’t want to over- or under-bathe: both can cause irritation, itching, and skin concerns.
Your vet can also advise you on grooming products and practices, as well as whether your pet requires any medical grooming, such as anal gland expression.
Is My Pet at a Healthy Weight?
Sometimes it’s easy to discern if a pet is overweight or underweight. If Fido or Fluffy are, well, round, they’re likely to be overweight. There’s also a lot of grey area here, where you’re not sure whether your pet is overweight, underweight, or just right.
A word of caution: rapid, unexplained weight loss or gain can indicate illness or disease. If your four-legged friend is suddenly growing or shrinking and you don’t know why, talk to your vet.
What Health Concerns Might My Pet Face?
Pets may also be genetically predisposed to certain diseases. For example, white-coated puppies are more prone to visual and hearing loss. German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the breeds at risk of hip dysplasia, and pugs are prone to eye problems. Determine whether your pet is at a higher risk of developing any of these conditions.
Keep in mind that, while breed is an important element, it is not the only one to consider. It is also important to consider your pet’s history. For example, pets who have received steroids may be more likely to develop diabetes.
Why Does My Pet ____?
We left this one blank because there are so many conceivable variations. And, to be honest, we may not be able to explain why your cat chews wallpaper or why your dog dislikes getting his paws wet. That being said, we know a lot about our patients and might be able to shed some light on their adorable—and frequently hilarious—quirks.
Make An Appointment At Our Grange Hill East, ON Pet Hospital
Is it time for your pet’s exam, vaccines, or parasite control? Please do not hesitate to contact us. As your Grange Hill East, ON pet hospital, we are here to assist.
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