If you aren't familiar with dog care, you may not know how important it is for your pup to have regular veterinarian visits. The vet is your dog's best friend for staying healthy, so check out these three facts you may not have known about vet care for your dog.
Preventative Care Is Your Best Weapon
As with humans, preventative care for your dog is your best weapon against disease and for keeping your pup healthy for life. During these examinations, your vet looks for signs of potential problems so you can stop them before they start. This is also when the vet gives your pet vaccinations to prevent the spread of disease or even death. For younger dogs, under ten years of age (and who are healthy), one annual visit may be enough, but your vet may still suggest two visits a year. If your dog is older or unhealthy, your vet may suggest bringing in your dog more often.
Dogs Need Dental Cleanings Too
Going to the dentist isn't just for humans anymore. In fact, it's incredibly important that you keep up on your dog's dental health because about 70 to 85 percent of pets over two years of age have some form of dental disease from poor care. As long as you keep up on your dog's dental care, cleanings will hopefully be all you need; but, dogs are susceptible to decay, infection, cracks, and every other oral disorder humans can develop. In some cases, your dog may be able to get an awake cleaning, which is cheaper because no anesthesia is used, but it depends on the temperament of your dog and the preference of the vet.
Alternative Medicine May Help Your Pup
So many people are moving toward alternative medicine for their own medical needs because there may be fewer side effects. Treatments like massage, chiropractic adjustments, and acupuncture are even becoming more popular for pets because of minimal side effects. Make sure if you choose to take your pet in for alternative care you find someone reputable. In some cases, providers for humans also accept pets. In other case, your vet may provide these services. Whichever you choose, make sure they have training in pet care and alternative medicine.
Your dog is a part of your family, so don't neglect your vet visits. They are sure to keep your dog healthy and happy. For more information regarding vet services, contact a local veterinarian service--like Northwest Animal Hospital--in your area today and schedule an appointment.
