
Why Your Dog Might Be Vomiting
No sound will get a dog owner’s attention quite like…
Your dog runs and plays or your cat chases his tail. Both pets seem healthy, but how do you really know if your pet is a healthy pet?
“There are many factors that go into our pet’s overall health and wellness,” said Joni Lindquist, DVM, veterinarian with Elk Creek Animal Hospital. “Perhaps the most important place to start is by having your dog or cat examined by their veterinarian at least once a year.”
An annual exam for your pet provides the perfect opportunity to check on their overall health. Your veterinarian will review their vaccination status, assess their weight and check for any changes in their coat or skin since the last visit.
“An exam by your veterinarian starts as soon as they walk in the room. For example I start by noticing how your pet is interacting both with you as their parent and their reaction to another person entering the area,” said Dr. Lindquist. “Also, it may look like I am petting your pet, but in actuality, I am feeling for lumps or bumps, or any changes in their body from their previous visit.”
Your veterinarian may also ask you questions about your pet’s eating habits, activity level and waste elimination. Consider making a list of observations before you go, as well as any questions you have to ask.
“In addition to an annual check-up with your veterinarian, seriously consider having your pet spayed or neutered,” said Dr. Lindquist. “Spaying or neutering your pet not only helps control the pet population, but also increases your pet’s overall wellness.”
By spaying or neutering your dog or cat, you are reducing their risk for mammary or testicular tumors and uterine infections. Studies also show that spayed or neutered pets live longer. When should you spay or neuter your pet? Any time after 12-weeks of age, the procedure is considered safe.
Other wellness options to consider with your pet:
No wellness plan is complete without pet insurance. By having a pet insurance plan established for your pet at a young age, you can ensure a lifetime of less worry about veterinary expenses and focus your attention on getting your pet back on the path of wellness. Plans such as the Lifetime Plan cover chronic and hereditary conditions for the life of your pet as long as there isn’t any lapse in coverage.