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Make the Most Out of Your Spring
Visit to the Veterinarian
(ARA) - You're not the only one who's tired of cold weather. Your pet has been looking
forward to spring, too. To help your pet enjoy the great outdoors this season, you should
schedule a spring check-up with your veterinarian to make sure your pet is ready to ward
off the newest crop of ticks, heartworm-causing mosquitoes and other parasites. The
veterinarians at Idexx Laboratories recommend the following PET TIPS to
help you make the most of your furry friend's check-up. Pay Attention
You are the one who cares for your pet each
day. Although your veterinarian is the expert, you are more likely to notice any subtle
changes in your pet's behavior or physical abilities. Know your pet's habits so you can
question the veterinarian about noticeable changes in your pet's weight, appetite, water
consumption, coat or skin, behavior or mobility. Compile a list of questions and
"things to do" in advance.
Examine
Check your pet before your visit by looking and feeling for any
noticeable bumps or lumps. Talk to your veterinarian about what you notice. Test Regular
blood and urine testing are two of the most important steps to keeping your pet healthy
and can diagnose diseases in their earliest and most treatable stages. A simple and easy
test can detect seasonal threats such as Lyme disease, heartworm and ehrlichiosis.
Teeth
Schedule a dental exam and routine cleaning. Learn how to brush your
dog's teeth if you don't do so already. This is not only beneficial for your pet, but it
also helps reduce "dog breath." As with humans, a bit of regular prevention goes
a long way. Immunization Plan to vaccinate your dog against diseases prevalent in your
area. Your veterinarian can advise you about new vaccines and the vaccinations required by
law in your state.
Parasites
As the temperature rises, so do the number of parasites. Test for
tick-borne diseases and heartworm with quick and easy in-clinic tests. Talk to your
veterinarian about possible prevention or protection strategies. Effective treatments and
medications are available.
Schedule
Schedule any follow-up visits recommended by your veterinarian
immediately following your pet's check-up. If you have a senior pet (age seven or older),
visit the veterinarian at least twice a year for a senior check-up to stay in tune with
changes in your pet's health. Pets generally age faster than humans, so more frequent
senior checkups to the veterinarian are important to catch problems early. Remember to
routinely test for ticks, heartworm and other deadly diseases at each visit.
By following these simple guidelines and following the
advice of your veterinarian, your pet should be ready for a healthy season.
Courtesy of ARA Content |
