Regular pet health checks for your dog are just as necessary as vaccinations. Even though your canine may be in perfect health, a routine health check-up ensures that your pet will live a long and healthy life. After all, prevention is the best approach.
What a Health-check Encompasses
A dog who receives a health check-up receives a comprehensive head-to-tail exam. During this type of assessment, the vet will review and discuss the following:
- The dog’s weight. If the dog is overweight, the doctor will discuss foods and/or activities that will aid in weight loss.
- The general condition of your dog’s coat. The doctor will check and look for lumps and bumps.
- Your dog’s vision. The vet will review anything he has observed.
- The condition of your dog’s teeth. The vet will look for any indications of dental disease or halitosis.
- The heart and lungs will be checked with a stethoscope.
Where to Schedule a Health Check for your Dog
If you contact Gordon Vet in North Shore, vets at the hospital also have the equipment and know-how to perform a musculoskeletal exam of the muscles and bones, as well as an abdominal palpation, or a check of the abdomen. Parasite control is also provided in the overall exam.
In addition, Ku ring gai vets from Gordon Vet Hospital check dogs for external parasites, or make sure that your canine is on a suitable tick and flea prevention protocol. By using this approach, veterinarians can keep a detailed medical history, and follow your pet’s health throughout his life.
Getting to the Root of a Problem before it Becomes Worse
Indeed, a health check is important, as a veterinarian can uncover a good deal of information during an exam. For instance, he can address the early warning signs of a serious health issue. Many conditions, when detected early, can be delayed or treated successfully. Therefore, as a dog ages, a health check should be conducted semi-annually.
What You Can do Between Health Checks
In between exams, it is important that you make sure that your dog is as healthy as possible. You can do this by feeding him a nutritious and quality diet, as well as routinely checking his teeth and gums. Controlling your dog’s weight should also be made a priority. That means making sure he follows the proper diet and is regularly exercised. Maintaining the proper parasitic control (both internal and external) should be done, as well as noting any behavioural changes in your pet.
If you do find that your dog is not eating, is lethargic, or is not behaving as he normally does, then you need to contact your veterinarian without delay. In fact, seek veterinary advice as soon as you note any changes in your pet. Some signs of abnormal behaviour include picky eating, excess thirst, increased aggression, coughing, breathing difficulties, anxiousness, hiding, whimpering, and panting.
When we refer to check-ups, naturally we relate the exam to visiting the vet. However, you must also be completely involved in your dog’s care. By taking extra measures in this respect, you can reduce pet care costs and catch any issues early, before you have to pay for a surgery or an expensive treatment plan.