Most doting pet parents know that an annual checkup is one of the responsibilities of pet ownership, and that, in preparation for summer mosquito and tick season, springtime is the best time to visit. Even if you keep a close eye on your pet’s health, an annual visit to the vet for a thorough checkup means added peace of mind.
As well as identifying any problems before they become serious, regular health checkups allow you to keep your pet’s vaccinations up-to-date, track their weight accurately, and ask about any issues that may be worrying you.
While your pet’s being weighed and examined, it’s a good time to bring up any questions or concerns you may have about your pet; are there any nagging behavioural issues that you need guidance with?
Vet volume discounts
If you have more than one pet, some veterinarians offer a discount when you bring both your pets in at the same time. Sometimes they can be a comfort to each other; other times, however, the dog drags its heels and the cat yowls, all of which can be enough to send a pet owner’s heart rate soaring dangerously high. Ask a friend or family member for help if you’re uncertain about your ability to bring more than one pet at a time to the appointment.
What to expect at the vet’s
Your annual vet visit is a chance to review your pet’s general health, vaccinations; fleas, ticks and worms; behavior, dental care, neutering, and weight. For senior dogs, it’s recommended you keep an eye on their food and water intake, and discuss any concerns with the vet.
Your vet will examine the animal, listen to its heart and lungs, palpate its abdomen, check for skin and coat problems, and take a look at the eyes, ears and teeth and gums.
A regular visit to your local veterinarian also provides the perfect opportunity to make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date; this is especially important if you are a foster parent, travel with your pet, or board them at kennels.
How to treat veterinary phobia
Some dogs are so fearful of the building and its smells, you would think they left paw marks in the sidewalk as you literally dragged them in the door. Cats, unfortunately, can experience similar trauma.
Veterinarians recommend desensitization therapy, which involves dropping by the office randomly, so your pet does not always associate pain or discomfort with the vet. Also, associating the office with rewards like yummy treats is another way to help the animal brain deal with the distressing sounds and smells.
By popping into the vet’s office now and then and distracting your pet with lots of yummy treats, you will help decrease ttheir fear and discomfort of the annual visit.
Similarly for the pet guardian, there must be a reward that distracts you until next year’s visit – perhaps a nice meal out, a glass of wine or two, or just a long enjoyable walk with the object of your canine affections.