What Usually Happens During Pet Checkups
A checkup is another name for your pet’s annual wellness exam. If your dog is healthy, he or she will need to be checked once or twice a year. If you wish to keep your pet fit, regular checkups are essential. Taking your healthy dog in for checkups at the vet regularly helps him catch any health problems in their early stages.
What does a pet check-up cover?
The following components constitute comprehensive wellness examinations and you can learn more by clicking here.
Vaccinations
A puppy immunization schedule or a reminder of when your dog’s immunizations are due should be provided by your veterinarian. Vaccines against diseases like distemper, leptospirosis, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and Bordetella must be administered at specific times (kennel cough). To participate in the “Pet Passport” program, canine companions must be up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
Parasite treatment.
Eliminating parasites like ticks, fleas, and worms is another scenario where prevention is superior to treatment. Remember that fleas and flea eggs can overwinter in your house and yard and that fleas and ticks can spread disease. Your doctor can provide you tips on how to protect your pet against parasites like fleas and ticks, and even tapeworm and lungworm if necessary.
Treatment and prevention of bad behavior.
If your dog exhibits any unusual or reclusive behavior throughout the year, such as excessive barking, biting, or chewing your shoes while you turn your back, make sure to bring it up during your veterinarian’s yearly checkup. In most circumstances, they can be controlled if diagnosed and treated early on. If you take your pet to the vet, they may be able to give you pointers or recommend a professional behaviorist. If you have a puppy, ask your vet about puppy training classes in your area.
Neutering
Neutering your dog is crucial in providing the best possible care for him. Adopting an adult dog guarantees that it has already been neutered. And yet, let’s say you’ve got a young dog or an adult dog that hasn’t been neutered. Your veterinary surgeon in Los Angeles may provide you with more information about neutering and how to care for your dog afterward.
Dental treatment.
Additionally, your vet will inspect your dog’s teeth to see if there is dog tartar buildup that needs to be cleaned. Senior dogs have a more increased risk of developing dental disease, leading to pain and infection in other parts of the body if left untreated. This dental exam is also a great time to go over your at-home oral care routine with your vet. Here again, prevention is preferable to treatment.
Weight and physical condition.
Dog obesity is a serious health risk; thus, it is important to regularly have your pet weighed at the veterinarian’s office and to monitor your dog’s health at home using a body condition score. An overweight dog can get some much-needed treatment. Consult your vet about a weight loss diet and exercise plan, or ask if they offer one. Your dog’s weight loss since their last check-in may indicate a medical problem.
In Conclusion
Once your pet has had its annual checkup and vaccines, your doctor will review the results with you. If the veterinarian notices anything amiss, they will discuss further diagnostics and treatment options with you. Now imagine that your veterinarian has given your pet a clean bill of health. Your veterinarian may have some suggestions regarding your pet’s nutrition, exercise routine, dental care, and parasite avoidance in this scenario.