Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Vet

Top 5 Dog Health Questions to Ask Your Vet

Do you ever go to the vet for a routine check-up for your canine and wonder what questions you should ask? To narrow things down for the sake of simplicity, here are 5 easy and informative questions to ask your vet about your prized pooch:

1. What vaccinations should my animal have?

This is an important question to ask your vet because not every pet is exposed to the same diseases and viruses as other pets. Disease and infection is always a risk to any pet, whether they are restricted to the indoors or outdoors. Your vet will be able to assess your pet’s individual situation and prescribe the right vaccinations so your pet can stay happy and healthy. Also, be sure to ask your vet how often your pet will need their vaccinations, so that you can put it down on your calendar. You should also be aware of the dangers of annual pet vaccinations.

2. Do you recommend a flea control program?

There are many flea control program for pets available, some of which include Advantage, K9 Advantix, Program, and Frontline brands. Most vets will have a personal preference, and it is always helpful to listen to a professional opinion. Some brands also may be better suited for your pet than others; if your dog is an outdoor pet, he will need a higher degree of flea protection than that of an indoor dog. Also be sure to ask your vet how often you should apply the flea control. And if you prefer a natural flea control, discuss this with your vet and clearly express your preference in this area.

3. Are there any common diseases and/or condition particular to my
dog’s breed that I should be aware of?

Different breeds of dogs are susceptible to different diseases and/or medical conditions. For example, dogs with long limbs are prone to arthritis in their later years. Your vet will be familiar with the diseases and conditions that your pet may be susceptible to. It will be extremely beneficial for you to be aware of these issues and symptoms, so that you may be able to recognize them should they appear.

4. Is there a specific diet or brand of pet food that you recommend for
my pet?

There are hundreds of pet food brands and diets available for your canine. Sometimes it may be overwhelming to see all of the pet food variants and brands when making the best choice for your pet. Again, some diets presented in pet food may be better suited for one particular age or breed of your pet than another. Ask your vet what they recommend. Again, it is always helpful to receive advice from a professional.

5. What is the emergency procedure for this clinic in case there should
be one?

Each Veterinary clinic has their own procedure for pet emergencies. Make sure you keep the clinic’s contact information in an accessible place, such as your wallet or a piece of paper taped on the inside panel of a cabinet door. It never hurts to keep a pet first aid kit handy as well in case you have difficulty getting in touch with your vet.

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