When most people think about going to the veterinarian with their dog, they think about going when there is an issue or problem such as an injury or illness. However, there is routine care that your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Much like with people, preventive care can help to prevent those injuries and illnesses that would later take you to the veterinarian with your dog and can save you money and trouble in the long-run. Get to know some of the routine care your dog needs. Then, you can be sure that you are doing what is best for your dog going forward.
Vaccinations
One of the most important routine care services available for your dog is vaccination services. Vaccinations are designed to help protect your dog against certain diseases. Of course, the rabies vaccine is the most well-known vaccine because it is the only one that is required by every state in the United States. However, there are many other vaccinations that your dog may need.
Bordetella, also known as kennel cough, is a respiratory disease that can cause coughing and other breathing symptoms in dogs. Vaccines are available to help your dog avoid dealing with this uncomfortable condition. Parvovirus, leptospirosis, canine hepatitis, and distemper are also vaccines that can help your dog avoid diseases that have the potential of being fatal.
Be sure that you take your dog to the veterinarian for their routine vaccinations and you will be working to avoid much more complicated vet visits that may require extensive and expensive treatments.
Dental Care
Although you may think your dog's teeth will take care of themselves without active care, this is not the case. Just like humans, dogs need dental care. While you can provide some of that care yourself at home by brushing their teeth, they will also need veterinary care to keep their teeth clean and healthy.
Once a year or so, your dog should go in for deep dental cleanings. Your dog's veterinarian will put your dog under general anesthesia and will take x-rays of your dog's teeth as well as thoroughly clean their teeth. If your dog has gum disease or any other dental infection, the veterinarian will also address these issues by prescribing medications or potentially removing teeth.
Taking proper care of your dog's dental care will help to improve their overall health as well. Gum disease can cause secondary infections throughout the body and can contribute to a wide variety of health conditions that could otherwise be avoided.
Now that you know a few of the types of routine care that your dog needs, you can be sure you are taking the best care of your dog possible and taking them to the vet for preventive care on a regular basis. For more information on this post, contact your local animal hospital.
Although it might not seem like it, your pet might be having a bad day too, which is why you should always respond to animals with the most sincere kindness. I started thinking more and more about my pet's experience a few months ago, and it was really neat to see just how much of a difference those simple actions made for me. Within weeks, my animal seemed happier and more well-adjusted, and it was fun to see the change. Check out this website for loads of information on improving your animal's life today, so that you can enjoy a great life with your pet.