By Lauren Malmberg, Peoria County Animal Protection Services
Managing our pet’s care is as essential to their well-being as managing our own health care is to ours. Pet owners must select a veterinarian, establish an effective relationship, implement preventive health care practices, and maintain necessary routines to provide the best health care for their animal friends.
Choosing a Veterinarian
Selecting a veterinarian can be one of the most important decisions you make for your pet’s health care. You can begin your search by asking friends or relatives for recommendations for veterinary services— who do they use for their pets? Do a bit of research into the office you’re interested in. Check with the vet to inquire about the number of veterinarians on staff, what services are available, their fee/payment structures, and what types of animals may be treated. If you’re looking for a specialist, ask about board certification. You can also make an appointment without your pet to meet the veterinarian and staff, observe the clinic or hospital, and learn about the practice’s health care philosophies and policies. You’ll want to be comfortable with your veterinarian and free to ask any questions necessary related to your pet’s care. And, you’ll want your pet to be comfortable with the veterinarian as well.
Establish an Effective Relationship
Once you’ve selected a veterinarian, make an appointment for your pet’s first exam. Depending upon the species, you may need required vaccinations, fecal exams, and other diagnostic examinations to start. Listen to your veterinarian’s recommendations, and determine the preventive health care practices you’ll need to follow. Your vet should be able to make diet and exercise recommendations; suggest vaccine, de-worming, and parasite prevention protocols; and discuss procedures like spaying or neutering that will benefit your pet.
Having good client manners encourages a happy relationship with your vet. Be a good client and see your vet regularly, not just when your pet becomes ill. Learn what’s normal for your pet, so you can recognize the first signs of illness. If your pet is not well, don’t wait until he’s really sick before you consult your veterinarian. Schedule appointments and be on time. Don’t expect your veterinarian to diagnose a pet’s problem over the telephone. Even in an emergency, call ahead to ensure your vet is available. Don’t waste precious time driving to the office only to be referred to an emergency clinic. Take your dog in on a leash and under control; bring your cat in a carrier.
Hopefully, you’ll continue to see the same veterinarian as your pet ages. Not only will your pet be more comfortable with someone he knows (just as you will), but the doctor will also be able to observe your animal’s health as he ages. With an effective relationship, you can consult with your vet whenever a health issue arises — he will have a historical perspective of your pet and be more able to help you. Still, if you’re not comfortable with the first professional you choose, don’t worry about leaving. Most veterinary practices, like all businesses, understand that clients may come and go. If you must leave, be sure to ask that a complete copy of your dog’s health records be mailed or faxed to you or your new vet.
Provide Routine Veterinary Care
Annual visits to the veterinarian can help prolong your animal’s life and certainly maintain his good health. While they may seem unnecessary, regular veterinary visits allow the doctor to evaluate the animal’s behavior, diet, and life stage. During the examinations, your vet will likely gauge your pet’s dental, body, and muscle conditions. On the basis of the examination and your pet’s history, your vet can then assess the animal for potential medical conditions, infectious and zoonotic diseases, and genetic, breed, or age-related conditions.
Based on his observations, your vet can recommend parasite prevention or control, nutritional changes, and behavior modifications if necessary. Dental care is of primary importance as poor teeth can lead to a number of serious health issues. Changes in your pet’s dental condition can be identified early if routine examinations are conducted.
We always want our pet to live as long as possible; the hardest part of pet ownership can be losing him or her — especially at a young age. You can help prolong your pet’s life by feeding an appropriate diet, providing adequate exercise, and maintaining his health through proper veterinary care.
Consider adopting a new pet when you’re ready from an animal shelter or rescue group, like the Peoria County Animal Protection Services. We have many terrific domestic pets looking for forever homes. Come visit us today! Call Peoria County Animal Protection Services at 309-672-2440.
This article is sponsored by Waggin’ Tails Doggy Daycare and Resort, Goodfield, IL. Call 309-642-9299 or email waggintailsresort@gmail.com for your dog’s boarding, doggy day care, and grooming needs.
Photo credit: Fuse/Thinkstock