7 Questions For The Vet

As Christmas approaches, many folks are considering adopting or buying their next pooch or kitty. Please remember before you shop for a pet that there are thousands of homeless cats and dogs in shelters across the US whose Christmas wish is simply to find a loving forever home.

However, whichever way you prefer to find your next four-legged best friend, remember the importance of finding the best veterinarian in the Clifton Park area!

From the very beginning of pet ownership it’s important to schedule routine veterinary visits. Tracking your pooch’s or kitty’s physical or mental health throughout his or her lifetime is their job. The better they know your pet, and even your lifestyle, the more they can help keep Fido or Felix healthy.

Additionally, pet experts at insidepetsworld.com <http://insidepetsworld.com/> agree that these are the most important questions to ask your new pet’s veterinarian:

1. Am I providing the best nutrition? After all, younger pets have different dietary needs than adult pets. A veterinarian is trained to determine what is best for your individual pet and knows how to help you not overfeed them.

2. When does my pet need blood work? Most veterinarians recommend annual blood tests so that they can better monitor changes in your pet’s overall health. Keeping a record of blood work and vaccinations allows your vet to more easily track their health. However, if your pet develops a serious illness, don’t be surprised if your vet recommends monthly blood tests.

3. Is my pet overweight? Obesity is as much an epidemic in our pets as it is in humans. Obesity can cause a number of health problems, including diabetes. It’s a vet’s job to offer guidelines to keep our pets a healthy weight. They can recommend not only the best choice of food but also the right portion size for your pet.

4. Does my pet have dental disease? Your pet’s dental hygiene affects its health. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to liver, kidney and heart disease. Veterinarians should check your pet’s teeth during routine exams or anytime you suspect a problem.

5. Is my pet’s behavior normal? Behavioral changes in your pet can be her or his way of letting you know that something is wrong. Be sure to mention anything unusual to your pet’s vet.

6. Does my pet have any lumps or bumps? Anytime you notice a lump or bump on your pet you should bring it to the attention of your pet’s vet. In senior pets, these can be early signs of cancer. But even in younger pets, a vet should be consulted to assess the seriousness of these skin changes.

7. Does my pet need medication? Many conditions don’t require medication while others do. It’s important to make sure your pet and any ailment he or she may suffer from, are adequately treated. Your pet’s vet will know how best to proceed. And with all of the over-the-counter medications that are out there for things like fleas and worms, it’s always best to consult with your pet’s vet before choosing one.

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