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Annual Veterinary Exams and Preventative Care
Perhaps
one of the most loving, responsible things you can do for your new pet
is to see that he receives timely health care from a veterinarian. It
is important to establish a relationship with a veterinarian right away
so he or she becomes a trusted partner in your pet's upbringing.
You
may want to discuss any of the following at your pet's Annual Veterinary
Exam:
- Vaccination
status
- Parasite
control for intestinal parasites, fleas, ticks, mites, and heartworms
- Dental
health - care you give at home; any mouth odors, pain, or other signs
of disease you may have observed
- Nutrition
- including what your dog eats, how often, what supplements and treats
are given, and changes in water consumption, weight, or appetite
- Exercise
- how much exercise your dog receives including how often and what kind;
and any changes in your dog’s ability to exercise
- Ears
and Eyes - any discharge, redness, or itching
- Stomach
and intestines - any vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas, belching,
or abnormal stools
- Breathing
- any coughing, shortness of breath, sneezing, or nasal discharge
- Behavior
- any behavior problems such as barking, 'accidents,' or changes in
temperament
- Feet
and legs - any limping, weakness, toenail problems
- Coat
and skin - any hair loss, pigment changes, lumps, itchy spots, shedding,
mats, or anal sac problems
- Urogenital
- any discharges, heats, changes in mammary glands, urination difficulties
or changes, neutering if it has not already been performed
- Blood
tests - especially for geriatric dogs, those with medical problems,
and those who are receiving medications
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