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Reasons to bring your pet to the vet
Your lovable ball of fur may seem like they’re in perfect health, running around and playing as usual. However, regular vet visits are crucial for your pet’s overall well-being and can prevent future health issues from arising.
This blog post will outline the top reasons why it’s essential to take your pet to the vet and prepare you for what to expect during a typical check-up.
Reasons to bring your pet to the vet.
As you probably know, veterinarians don’t come cheap. As a result, too many pet owners decide to skimp on regular vet visits, thinking they can save money in the short term. But in reality, this decision can cost you much more in the long run if your pet develops a severe or chronic illness.
Here’s why you should regularly bring your pet to the vet.
Health overview
Your vet will give your pet a thorough physical examination during a routine check-up. They will check the following:
Ears: Dog and cat ear infections can be incredibly painful and can lead to long-term hearing damage if left untreated.
Eyes: Eye issues such as cataracts or glaucoma can impact your pet’s vision, and early detection is critical for proper treatment.
Teeth and gums: Dental diseases are common in pets, but they can also lead to other health issues, such as heart and kidney disease, if left unchecked.
Overall body condition: Your vet will check for unusual weight changes, skin conditions, and heart and lung sounds.
Muscles and joints: Your vet will check for stiffness, pain, and potential signs of arthritis.
Early detection
Vet check-ups aren’t just about treating current health issues but also about preventing future problems. Your vet will discuss vaccination schedules and parasite control with you, both of which can prevent a host of illnesses in your pet. For example, dogs can contract rabies from wild animals, but proper vaccinations can protect them against this deadly disease.
Additionally, regular blood work and urine testing can catch underlying health issues before they become serious. These tests can also help your vet monitor any chronic conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease. They will make necessary adjustments to your pet’s treatment plan if needed.
Finally, your vet will feel for any lumps or abnormalities and may suggest further testing, such as biopsies. Early cancer detection can significantly improve your pet’s prognosis and treatment options.
Treatment
The worst-case scenario is that your pet becomes injured or ill. Regular vet appointments can ensure they receive prompt and appropriate treatment. Your vet will have a comprehensive understanding of your pet’s medical history and can help you make informed decisions about the best course of action.
All in all, regular vet visits are essential for your pet’s overall health and well-being. Don’t wait until there is a problem bringing them in—schedule check-ups at least once a year to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Additional services offered by vets
In addition to providing medical care for your pet, many veterinarians also offer services that can improve your pet’s quality of life. Your vet can also offer guidance on proper nutrition and exercise for your pet and any supplements they may need. Plus, they can give helpful tips on how to keep your pet’s coat, teeth, and gums healthy.
Spaying and neutering
Vets are also the go-to professionals for spaying and neutering your pet. This procedure prevents unwanted litters and can reduce certain health risks and behavior issues in dogs and cats.
Although this procedure is only required once in your pet’s lifetime, regular vet visits allow for proper post-operative care and monitoring.
Grooming
Have you tried untangling your cat’s matted fur or trimming your dog’s nails only to end up with a frustrated pet and a bunch of scratches? Many veterinarians also offer grooming services, often with the added bonus of being able to sedate your pet if necessary. That makes the experience much less stressful for both you and your pet.
Microchipping
You might think your pet will never escape or get lost, but accidents happen. Another service many vets offer is microchipping, a permanent form of identification for your pet if they become lost. A microchip dramatically increases the likelihood of being reunited with your furry friend if they ever end up missing.
boarding
Lastly, boarding services. Not all vets offer this service, but some do provide a safe place for your pet to stay while you are away. However, safe doesn’t necessarily mean comfortable—veterinarian offices aren’t designed to be cozy and home-like for your pet. Before leaving your pet with a boarding vet, make sure to ask about the accommodations and check for any potential red flags.
Vets are also usually a source of stress for animals, so you may want to think twice before leaving your friend there for an extended period of time. It’s often a better option to find a trusted pet sitter or doggy daycare facility that can provide more personalized attention and comfort for your pet.
At Ruffgers University, we provide training and boarding services in a fun and safe environment. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help improve your pet’s well-being.