Are you a devoted dog parent? If so, ensuring your furry companion enjoys a lengthy and vibrant life is probably your top priority. In this blog, our veterinarians from Mooresville reveal the optimal frequency for vet visits and shed light on the significance of regular check-ups for your beloved canine.
Prevention & Early Detection
Helping your dog live a longer, healthier life involves preventing serious diseases or detecting them early when treatment is easier. Regular visits to the vet allow your veterinarian to monitor your dog's overall health, spot signs of diseases at their earliest stage, and suggest the best preventive products for your dog.
We understand that the expenses of checkups can be concerning, especially when your dog seems healthy. However, being proactive and preventive about your furry friend's health can ultimately save you money by avoiding more expensive treatments later on.
Routine Wellness Exams - Checkups for Dogs
Taking your dog to the vet for a routine checkup is like going for a physical exam. The frequency of these exams depends on your dog's lifestyle, health, and age, just like with humans.
Regular checkups at the vet are important for your dog's well-being. Typically, healthy adult dogs should have an annual wellness exam.
However, puppies, senior dogs, and those with health issues should have more frequent checkups to ensure their health and happiness.
Puppies Up to 12 Months Old
If you have a puppy under a year old, it's important to take them to the vet every month. This is because during their first year, puppies need multiple vaccinations to protect them from common diseases like hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, corona, parvo, leptospirosis, and rabies. These vaccinations are given to your puppy over a period of 16 weeks and play a crucial role in maintaining their health.
The timing of the vaccinations may vary depending on where you live and your puppy's overall health. Additionally, our veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering your dog when they are between 14-16 weeks old. This helps prevent various diseases, unwanted behaviors, and the birth of unwanted puppies.
Adult Dogs Up To 7 Years of Age
For the optimal health and well-being of your adult dog, it is advisable to schedule yearly wellness exams if they are between 1 and 7 years old.
During these exams, your veterinarian will thoroughly examine your dog from head to tail to catch any early signs of illness or potential problems, such as tooth decay, joint pain, or parasites.
Additionally, your vet will administer necessary vaccines, provide guidance on your dog's diet and nutrition, suggest suitable parasite protection measures, and address any concerns you have regarding your dog's behavior or training.
If your vet identifies any emerging health issues during the examination, they will discuss their findings with you and recommend the appropriate next steps.
Senior Dogs
Dogs are generally considered old when they reach around 8 years, except for large breeds like Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, Mastiffs, and Saint Bernards. These breeds age faster and require more frequent preventive care, usually starting around 5 years of age.
Since older dogs are more prone to injuries and diseases, it's recommended to take your senior dog to the vet every 6 months. These checkups will include all the necessary checks and advice mentioned earlier, along with additional diagnostic tests to assess your dog's overall health.
Some common diagnostic tests for senior dogs include urinalysis and blood tests to detect early signs of conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.
Geriatric care for dogs also involves taking a proactive approach to keep your dog comfortable, especially as age-related issues like joint pain become more common. If you have a senior dog, consult your vet to determine how often you should bring your pet in for an examination.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.