{"id":1032,"date":"2024-08-02T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-02T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stephenwoodworth.ca\/?p=1032"},"modified":"2024-08-13T20:49:45","modified_gmt":"2024-08-13T20:49:45","slug":"what-regular-check-ups-does-my-pet-need","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stephenwoodworth.ca\/what-regular-check-ups-does-my-pet-need\/","title":{"rendered":"What Regular Check-Ups Does My Pet Need?"},"content":{"rendered":"
Pets are more than animals; they are companions that become an integral part of families. Taking care of them goes beyond feeding and playtime; it involves ensuring they have a clean bill of health. Regular veterinary check-ups are critical to maintaining your pet’s health, preventing diseases, and catching health issues early. This guide provides pet owners with essential information on the types of check-ups their furry friends need throughout their lives.<\/p>\n
The cornerstone of pet healthcare is the annual wellness exam. Just like humans, pets can benefit greatly from regular check-ups even when they seem completely healthy. During these exams, veterinarians assess the overall health of your pet, which includes a thorough physical examination. These check-ups allow vets to develop a health profile for your pet and to identify any changes that may indicate health issues.<\/p>\n
An annual wellness exam typically covers:<\/p>\n
Weight and body condition assessment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Skin and coat quality checks.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Examination of the eyes, ears, and mouth for signs of infection or dental disease.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
It’s important to maintain these yearly visits as they represent a proactive approach to your pet’s health, possibly extending their lifespan by avoiding preventable diseases.<\/p>\n
Vaccinations are crucial in protecting your pets from various infectious diseases. The specific vaccinations needed depend on several factors, including your pet’s age, lifestyle, and the general recommendations of your vet. Generally, there are core vaccines that all pets should receive and non-core vaccines that are given based on the individual pet’s risk exposure. Common core vaccinations include those against rabies, distemper, and parvovirus for dogs, while cats are often immunized against rabies, calicivirus, and feline herpesvirus.<\/p>\n
Preventing parasite infestations is another critical component of a pet’s healthcare routine. This not only includes treatments for fleas and ticks but should also encompass heartworm prevention and deworming for intestinal parasites. Many of these preventatives are administered monthly and should be part of your pet’s regular care.<\/p>\n
Dental health is often overlooked in pet care, yet dental issues can lead to systemic health problems if unaddressed. During a regular check-up, vets evaluate your pet’s teeth and gums for any signs of periodontal disease, which can include bad breath, loose teeth, or inflammation. Professional dental cleanings may be suggested to remove plaque and tartar build-up.<\/p>\n
Bloodwork is a vital tool for monitoring your pet’s health. These tests can give insights into the functioning of organs like the kidneys and liver, detect diseases such as diabetes, and are often recommended annually for senior pets or those with health issues.<\/p>\n
Depending on your pet’s specific situation, a vet may also recommend:<\/p>\n