Do you have an upcoming appointment at our animal clinic? While it’s likely that your furry buddy would prefer to stay at home and take another sleep, regular visits are critical to your pet’s health and wellbeing. This is also an excellent opportunity to seek personalized care guidance to ensure that your beloved pet remains happy and healthy for as long as possible. As your Carlisle, ON veterinarians, we are always happy to answer questions!
Here are some things you might wish to ask about:
What Type of Food Should I Feed My Pet?
While we are delighted to make ideas on brands and ingredients, your pet will eventually require a personalized menu. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on pet food, but you should ensure that your pet is getting a nutritious, nutritional diet that fulfills their individual needs and is appropriate for their age, health, and lifestyle.
How Much Exercise Does My Pet Need?
Doggy exercise requirements vary greatly from pup to pup. Size is one factor. A Yorkie may receive enough exercise just racing around on its little legs. A German Shepherd may require an hour or more of vigorous activity everyday.
Size is not the only consideration here. Your pet’s breed and physiology are also important. Brachys, like pugs, should never be trained to run, jump, or swim since they have narrow airways and lose their breath quickly. Jumping and standing might be dangerous for larger dogs.
Of course, that doesn’t mean that cats and other animals don’t require exercise. However, play is the norm for them.
What Vaccines Does My Pet Need?
Pets are prone to a wide range of illnesses and disorders. There is no way to completely protect your pet from every possible threat, but vaccines are available for many of the most prevalent ones.
We normally recommend that all dogs and cats have the core vaccinations. Some non-core immunizations may also be recommended by your veterinarian. Kennels, airlines, groomers, and daycares often require the Bordetella vaccine, so that one is often suggested. Other non-core vaccines that your pet may benefit from are the Lepto vaccine, rattlesnake immunizations, and others.
How Are My Pet’s Teeth?
Dental health is equally vital for pets as it is for humans. Fluffy and Fido are unable to clean their own choppers and cannot arrange dental cleanings or other treatments for themselves. However, abscesses, gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, infections, and misalignments can result in serious pain and infections.
In addition to having your Carlisle, ON veterinarian examine your pet’s teeth, you may want to seek some advice on home care.
Do My Pets Need Preventatives?
Fleas, ticks, and heartworms are microscopic parasites that can cause significant difficulties. Some infestations are even life-threatening. In some situations, your pet may need to be evaluated before beginning a specific treatment program. Heartworm is one example of this. Infestation prevention products do not kill live worms, so if Fido is already infested, he will require therapy rather than simple preventatives.
We cannot stress the value of a solid preventative care plan. Protecting your pet against hazardous parasites and diseases is cheaper, easier, and more successful than treating them. It’s also less stressful for your pet.
How Frequently Should I Bathe My Pet?
Pets’ bathing and grooming requirements also differ significantly. A dog with short, smooth fur may only need to be bathed once or twice per month, whereas one with thick hair may require more frequent bathing. You don’t want to overbathe or underbathe because both can cause irritation, itching, and skin concerns.
Your veterinarian 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?
If Fido or Fluffy are round, well, they’re likely overweight. On the opposite end of the scale, a pet with protruding ribs may need to gain weight. There’s also a lot of middle ground here, where you’re maybe not sure if your pet is overweight, underweight, or just fine.
A word of caution: rapid, unexplained weight loss or gain may 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 Issues Could Affect My Pet?
Pets may also be genetically prone to specific illnesses. For example, puppies with white coats are more prone to vision and hearing loss. Keep in mind that, while breed is important, it is not the sole consideration. Your pet’s history is also important. For example, pets given steroids may be more likely to acquire diabetes.
Why does my pet ____?
We left this one blank because the possibilities are practically endless. And, to be honest, we might not be able to explain why your cat chews wallpaper or why your dog can’t resist mud puddles. That being said, we know a lot about our patients and may be able to throw some light on their endearing—and frequently hilarious—quirks.
Book An Appointment At Our Carlisle, ON Pet Hospital
Is it time for your favorite pet to have an exam, immunizations, or parasite control? Are you looking for an excellent veterinary clinic? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. As your neighborhood Carlisle, ON vet hospital, we’re here to help.
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