How often should I take my dog to the vet. What vaccinations does my dog need. How can I maintain my dog’s dental health. What is the ideal weight for my dog. How do I choose the right food for my dog. What parasite prevention methods are best for my dog. How can I address behavioral issues in my dog.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups: The Foundation of Canine Health

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your dog’s health and catching potential issues early. But how often should you take your furry friend to the vet? The frequency of visits depends on various factors, including your dog’s age, breed, and overall health condition.

For healthy adult dogs, annual check-ups are generally recommended. However, puppies, senior dogs, and those with chronic health conditions may require more frequent visits. During these check-ups, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, update vaccinations, and address any concerns you may have.

Preparing for Your Vet Visit

To make the most of your veterinary appointment, consider the following tips:

• Schedule an appointment in advance to ensure you have enough time with the vet
• Inform the clinic of any specific concerns when booking
• Bring a fresh stool sample if requested
• Keep your dog on a leash or in a carrier for safety
• Prepare a list of questions or observations about your dog’s health

Vaccinations and Preventive Care: Safeguarding Your Dog’s Health

Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your dog from various infectious diseases. But which vaccines does your dog actually need? The answer varies depending on factors such as your dog’s age, lifestyle, and geographical location.

Core vaccines, which are recommended for all dogs, typically include:

• Rabies
• Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis)

Non-core vaccines, which may be recommended based on your dog’s specific risk factors, can include:

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
• Leptospirosis
• Lyme Disease
• Canine Influenza

During your vet visit, don’t hesitate to ask about your dog’s vaccination schedule. Your veterinarian can provide a tailored vaccination plan that ensures optimal protection for your furry companion.

Dental Health: The Often Overlooked Aspect of Canine Wellness

Dental health is a crucial yet often neglected aspect of canine care. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, which is the most common health issue affecting adult dogs. How can you maintain your dog’s dental health?

Start by establishing a regular tooth-brushing routine at home. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, as human products can be harmful to dogs. Aim to brush your dog’s teeth daily, or at least several times a week.

In addition to home care, professional dental cleanings performed by your veterinarian are essential. These cleanings involve a thorough examination, X-rays, and cleaning under general anesthesia. Your vet can advise on the appropriate frequency of professional cleanings based on your dog’s individual needs.

Signs of Dental Problems in Dogs

Be vigilant for these signs that may indicate dental issues:

• Bad breath
• Discolored or loose teeth
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Difficulty eating or loss of appetite
• Pawing at the mouth

Weight Management: Ensuring Your Dog’s Optimal Health

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your dog’s overall well-being. Excess weight can lead to various health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. But how can you determine if your dog is at a healthy weight?

Your veterinarian can assess your dog’s body condition score, which takes into account factors such as visible ribs, waist definition, and abdominal tuck. They can also provide you with an ideal weight range for your dog based on their breed, age, and body structure.

If your dog needs to lose weight, your vet can recommend a tailored weight loss plan. This may include adjusting portion sizes, switching to a lower-calorie diet, and increasing exercise. Regular weigh-ins and follow-up appointments can help track progress and make necessary adjustments to the plan.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Weight in Dogs

1. Measure food portions accurately
2. Limit treats to no more than 10% of daily calorie intake
3. Incorporate regular exercise into your dog’s routine
4. Avoid feeding table scraps
5. Consider using puzzle feeders to slow down eating

Nutrition: Choosing the Right Diet for Your Dog

Proper nutrition is fundamental to your dog’s health, but with the myriad of options available, how do you choose the right food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance based on your dog’s specific needs.

Factors that influence dietary recommendations include:

• Age (puppy, adult, senior)
• Size and breed
• Activity level
• Health conditions (e.g., allergies, kidney disease, obesity)
• Preferences and palatability

Your vet may recommend commercial dog food, home-cooked diets, or a combination of both. They can also advise on the appropriate balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates for your dog’s optimal health.

Reading Dog Food Labels

Understanding dog food labels can help you make informed choices. Look for:

• A statement that the food meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards
• Named meat sources as the first ingredients
• Avoid foods with excessive fillers or artificial preservatives
• Consider life stage-specific formulations (e.g., puppy, adult, senior)

Parasite Prevention: Protecting Your Dog from Harmful Pests

Fleas, ticks, and heartworms pose serious health risks to dogs. What are the most effective methods for preventing these parasites? Your veterinarian can recommend the best preventive measures based on your dog’s lifestyle and your geographical location.

Flea and tick prevention options may include:

• Oral medications (pills or chewables)
• Topical treatments (spot-on applications)
• Collars

Heartworm prevention typically involves monthly oral medications or topical treatments. In some cases, injectable options that provide protection for several months may be available.

It’s important to use these preventives consistently and as directed by your veterinarian. Year-round protection is often recommended, even in areas with cold winters, as parasites can survive indoors.

Signs of Parasite Infestation

Be aware of these potential signs of parasite problems:

• Excessive scratching or licking
• Visible fleas or ticks on the skin
• Tapeworm segments in feces
• Coughing or difficulty breathing (potential heartworm symptoms)
• Lethargy or weakness

Behavioral Health: Addressing Your Dog’s Mental Well-being

Your dog’s behavioral health is just as important as their physical health. How can you address behavioral issues and ensure your dog’s mental well-being? Your veterinarian can provide valuable insights and recommendations.

Common behavioral concerns that warrant discussion with your vet include:

• Aggression
• Anxiety (including separation anxiety)
• Excessive barking
• Destructive behavior
• House soiling

Your veterinarian can help determine if these behaviors are related to underlying health issues or if they are purely behavioral. They may recommend behavior modification techniques, environmental changes, or in some cases, medication to address these concerns.

Promoting Mental Stimulation

To support your dog’s mental health, consider incorporating these activities:

1. Interactive puzzle toys
2. Training sessions
3. Scent work or nose games
4. Socialization with other dogs (if appropriate)
5. Regular exercise and playtime

Understanding Veterinary Costs: Planning for Your Dog’s Health Care

Veterinary care is an essential investment in your dog’s health, but it’s important to understand the associated costs. How can you plan for your dog’s health care expenses? Start by discussing typical costs with your veterinarian.

Ask about the fees for:

• Routine check-ups and vaccinations
• Dental cleanings
• Spaying or neutering
• Common diagnostic tests (blood work, X-rays, ultrasounds)
• Emergency care

Understanding these costs can help you budget for your dog’s care and consider options like pet insurance or wellness plans. Your veterinarian may also be able to provide information about payment plans or financial assistance programs for those facing financial hardship.

Preventive Care: An Investment in Your Dog’s Health

While veterinary care can be costly, remember that preventive care often saves money in the long run by catching and addressing health issues early. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments can help avoid more expensive treatments for advanced diseases.

By asking these essential questions during your veterinary visits, you can ensure that you’re providing the best possible care for your canine companion. Remember, your veterinarian is your partner in maintaining your dog’s health, so don’t hesitate to seek their guidance and expertise. With proper care and attention, you can help your furry friend live a long, healthy, and happy life.

Is My Dog Healthy? Questions to Ask the Vet

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Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Reviewed by Amy Flowers, DVM on August 11, 2022

In this Article

• Preparation
• Does my dog have all their tests vaccinations?
• How do their teeth look?
• Are they at a healthy weight?
• What food should I give them?
• What kind of flea, tick, and heartworm medicine should I use?
• Is my pet normal?
• How much will this cost?

Dog people know that their pooches are part of the family. And just like kids need checkups with their doctor, your pup needs regular trips to their veterinarian as well. How can you get the most from those visits? Make sure you ask your vet the right questions about your dog, from nutritional needs to vaccinations to behavioral issues.

If your pet has any new or unusual issues that worry you, be sure to mention them to the vet. But if they are perfectly healthy, you can still cover the basics.

Before you can ask your questions, you need to schedule your visit. It’s best to call ahead for an appointment — “walk-ins” can be hard for some clinics to work into the schedule. Another way to streamline your appointment is to tell the receptionist or technician about any specific concerns you have when you check in. That way, your veterinarian has a heads-up. Also, find out ahead of time if the vet will need a sample of your dog’s pee or poop — if so, keep that in mind before you arrive. And make sure your pup is on a leash or in a carrier!

Hopefully, you’ve kept up with your pet’s tests and vaccination schedule, but if you haven’t (or if you’ve rescued a dog and don’t have their medical records), you should make sure they are up to date on bloodwork, screenings and shots. It’s not a bad idea to ask your vet or their staff about which ones your pooch needs, now or in the future, and note the info on your calendar.

We humans brush our teeth twice a day, but we forget that our four-legged friends need to take care of their pearly whites, too. Gum disease is the most common condition that affects adult pets, and it’s one of the most preventable. Besides daily brushing at home, your dog may be due for a professional dental cleaning, which means putting them under general anesthesia so that the vet can properly check, X-ray, clean, and polish their teeth.

A proper weight is crucial for your dog’s health and well-being. Because every breed is different, it’s hard to know the right number for your little (or big) guy. But it’s especially important for specific breeds that are prone to conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, heart disease, and more. If your pup does have a few extra pounds to drop, ask your vet if they can recommend any weight loss and exercise plans.

The many aisles of dog food at the pet store can be a bit overwhelming. Ask your vet for advice on types and brands that may work best.

Even indoor pets are at risk for dangerous pests that may choose your pet as their next meal. Ask your vet about which flea, tick, and heartworm prevention medicines they recommend for your pooch. The right ones may depend on where you live, your pet’s lifestyle, and your budget. Some flea and tick meds are pills they swallow, medication you put on their skin, or collars or tags they can wear. Heartworm prevention can come as a monthly chewables, topical liquid or injectables.

This is your chance to ask the doctor if Fido’s behavior is just a quirk or a sign that something is going on with their health. If something seems off, your vet will likely recommend treatments or refer you to a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviorist to solve problems like aggression, anxiety, a lot of barking, urine marking, and other issues. 

Ask your vet about costs for routine tests as well as specialized exams before your dog gets them. Make sure you understand each fee and why it is necessary for your pooch’s health.

Your veterinarian is here to help your dog, so don’t be afraid to ask what’s going on and what you can do to help them live a long life.

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10 Questions Everyone Should Ask Their Veterinarian

Bringing pets to a veterinarian for a wellness exam can be nerve-wracking and frustrating for some people. Often it isn’t even the vet’s fault — we just don’t know the right questions to ask. Here are 10 things everyone should ask their veterinarian.

1. Is My Pet at a Healthy Weight?

More than half of the dogs and cats in the U.S. are overweight, according to a recent survey by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention. Even worse, many pet owners with overweight dogs or cats deny there is even a problem with their pet. Ask your veterinarian if your pet is within the appropriate weight range for her breed, size and stature. Then, if there is a problem, you can work in tandem on how to solve the issue. This also applies if you suspect your pet is underweight, though it’s less typical.

2. Could I be providing a more appropriate food?

Good health begins with proper nutrition, and who best to ask what is appropriate for your pet than your veterinarian. Once they evaluate your pet they can recommend diets that are appropriate for your pet’s life stage, lifestyle and any other factors or underlying health conditions that apply.

3. Is That [Insert Odd Behavior Here] Normal?

Don’t automatically assume that your pet wheezing after a bout of exercise is normal, or that it’s common for pets to itch every time they go outside. An annual pet wellness exam is a great time to ask your vet about any peculiarities you’ve noticed in your animal over the past year. Keep a running list as these things happen so you can note to your doctor exactly what the issue was, when it first occurred and how often it has occurred since.

4. Is My Pet Up to Date on Shots?

It never hurts to make sure your furry friend is totally up-to-date on all his or her vaccinations and immunizations—it’s something that can easily be overlooked.

5. Does My Pet Need a Dental Cleaning?

Dental disease is a common problem among pets. In fact, it’s estimated that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over the age of 3 years suffer from some degree of periodontal disease. If left untreated, this can lead to other more serious health complications such as issues with the kidney, liver, even the heart. Ask your veterinarian if Fido or Fluffy is due for a dental cleaning. “Rather than wait for a problem to develop,” says Dr. Ashley Gallagher, a veterinarian at Friendship Hospital for Animals, “it is best to perform a teeth cleaning when only mild gingivitis and/or tartar are present. This will maintain good dental health and prevent disease before it becomes a problem … which in turn helps you save money and keep your pet healthy!”

6. Does My Pet Need a Blood Test?

Blood tests screen for a variety of issues, including kidney and liver disease, diabetes, cancer and a variety of other issues that can be treated if caught early. Regular blood tests will also give your veterinarian a baseline to compare against over time.

7. What Flea/Tick Meds Do You Recommend for My Pet?

Fleas and ticks are not only a nuisance; they can also transmit deadly diseases to you and your pet. Fortunately, there are many options when it comes to killing and preventing fleas and ticks. Ask your veterinarian about the differences between popular medications on the market (for example, topical versus oral medications) and which suits you and your pet’s lifestyle the best. There are even some oral medications which protect against both fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks with just a single dose.

8. What are these Lumps and Bumps?

It’s not unusual for lumps and bumps to develop as pets age. However, unusual skin changes can also be an indication of cancer. Point out any new lumps, bumps or strange moles that have appeared since your last visit. The veterinarian can then determine if a biopsy is warranted.

9. Does My Pet Need a Rectal Exam?

Every veterinarian has a different way of doing things, but he or she may not perform a full rectal exam on your pet if you don’t ask for one. Rectal exams screen for prostate and rectal cancer, which can be treatable if caught early enough.

10. Can You Please Explain my Bill?

If you ask nicely your veterinarian will be much more likely to explain why a short visit and routine procedures cost what they do. It may seem like a lot of money, but these line item expenses are probably keeping your pet healthy and happy for many years to come.

Image: XiXinXing / via Shutterstock

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10 Questions You Should Ask Your Veterinarian

In order to make a faster and more accurate diagnosis, it is essential for a veterinarian to have comprehensive information. Before visiting a veterinary clinic, we encourage owners to write down a list of questions you want to ask the doctor. It’s very easy to forget the things you wanted to discuss when you’re worried about your pet’s condition.

If you’re not entirely sure what questions to ask your veterinarian, we have some tips to help you prepare for your visit to the veterinary clinic:

1. Is my pet’s weight normal?

Your pet will be weighed during the examination. Ask the veterinarian about the weight of the pet and how it corresponds to the norm. Being overweight or underweight can indicate health problems.

2. Do we feed our pet correctly?

The pet’s diet needs changes throughout life. The type and amount of food needs to be changed periodically. Discussing your pet’s diet will help you understand if your pet is getting the right amount of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. At each annual visit, tell your doctor about the amount and type of food you feed your pet. It is especially important to know if the diet has undergone a change in the period preceding the deterioration of the animal’s health. Growing kittens and puppies, diagnosed diabetes, older dogs and cats are just a few conditions that require dietary adjustments.

3. Is this behavior normal?

If you notice any change in your pet’s behavior, such as sleeping or eating more or less, active licking, biting or scratching, urinating outside the litter box, sudden attacks of aggression or fear, changes in activity or any other change in behavior – tell your veterinarian about it. Behavioral change can be a symptom that can help identify the disease.

4. When is the next vaccination due?

Skipping the next vaccination can lead to infection of your cat or dog. Keep track of vaccination dates, ask your veterinarian about the date of the next vaccination.

5. Does my cat/dog need a dental check-up?

Ask your veterinarian about your pet’s dental health. Ask if he needs professional help from a veterinary dentist or what you need to do at home to keep your pet’s teeth healthy. The neglected condition of the teeth and gums leads to a painful condition and diseases, which in the future may lead to the need for surgery in the oral cavity.

6. How up-to-date is the information on my pet’s chip?

It’s a pity, but the information on many microchips (address, telephone) is outdated and is not updated. If your chipped pet is lost, it will be difficult to find you without up-to-date information. An annual inspection is an excellent opportunity to make sure that the chip is working and the information in the database is up to date. If your animal has not yet been microchipped, it is better not to postpone this procedure

7. Do I need additional tests?

Blood tests, ultrasounds, x-rays, and other tests or studies can provide information about the animal’s health. This information can be extremely important for timely and accurate diagnosis or proper treatment. Ask your doctor if any additional tests or investigations are needed and what they are for in your case.

8. How much will all this cost?

Surprises are good, but not when they come in the form of a check. Ask about the cost of services before they begin to provide

If the cost of a procedure or treatment exceeds your expectations, discuss alternative options with your veterinarian.

9. Ask for clarification

If you don’t understand something in the doctor’s story, ask for clarification and ask questions that will help you understand the situation. No need to be shy.

10. What should I do after my visit to the veterinarian?

Before you leave your doctor, make sure you understand the next steps you will take at home. What should be done, what medications should be purchased, in what dosage and how often should they be used. Make sure you know exactly what to do next to heal your pet or keep it healthy.

Questions and answers from veterinarians

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• Questions and answers

Is it possible to walk with a puppy after vaccination?

Hello.
The classical scheme of vaccination of dogs: 1. at 8 weeks – a complex without rabies 2. at 12 weeks revaccination – a complex with rabies… read more

The cat was vaccinated quadricat at 4 months of age. When to revaccinate

Hello. You can choose the PureVax Cat Vaccine. This is a drug from the same French company Merial, which produced the Quadricat vaccine…. read more

My dog ​​had an umbilical hernia removed yesterday. To close the sutures in the abdomen, it is recommended to put on the animal a postoperative blanket, which can be purchased at a pet store… read more

If the selected kitten started to shit past the tray

Hello. Most likely in this situation there is one of the following reasons. Or the cat began to mark the territory to attract cats,… read more

Is it possible to transfer the cat to another food

Hello. It is not possible, but it is necessary! Economy-class feed (Whiskas, Friskas, Kiteket, etc.) is like fast food for people – tasty, but harmful. On… read more

If the dog Jack Russell Terrier has a girl, the dog’s intimate area is swollen

Hello. It is difficult to say with absolute accuracy without an examination, but most likely this is the beginning of the period of sexual hunting (estrus).
C… read more

The cat was prescribed lactobacilli, I forgot to put it in the fridge

Hello.
We recommend purchasing a new preparation, as biologics are very sensitive to storage temperature. From your… read more

What to do if the cat itches behind the ears

Hello.
Treat the cat with Stronghold (drops on the withers).
2 times with an interval of 1 month.

Sincerely,… read more

What to do if the cat ate a lot of rubber bands for weaving bracelets

Hello.
If the cat feels normal, then it is necessary to drink vaseline oil at the rate of 2 ml per 1 kg of weight 5-6 times a day to help… read more

How to remove fleas from a kitten, 1. 5 months. if a flea collar is contraindicated at this age

Hello!
Try Stronghold drops for cats. It can be used from 6 weeks of age.
Sincerely, veterinarian. read more

How to accustom to a new food? Changed the kitten’s food to a more expensive one, without flavors

Hello.

Perhaps it makes sense to choose a different food if the animal absolutely does not like this one.
And don’t transfer to him… read more

Is it possible to transport an unvaccinated kitten by car to the dacha

Hello.

Unvaccinated animals must not be transported!
Transportation – stress for the body, immunity decreases, the kitten becomes… read more

When to vaccinate a dog with worms

Hello. It is impossible to vaccinate a dog that has helminths (worms), first you need to get rid of them completely. Vaccinations can be done in any… read more

Does a cat need a blanket after sterilization

Hello.
We recommend that you always wear a postoperative blanket or a protective collar, otherwise the cat may cause.