Vets recommend you take your dog to the vet twice a year. This is important to your pet’s health and is the perfect time to get them immunized. However, paying for a vet bill when it seems there is nothing wrong feels like a bummer. This is why you need to make sure you talk to the vet and get a better handle on your pet’s health and what you can do. Here are some questions you should ask the vet at your next appointment.
What Should My Pet be Eating?
Understanding your pet’s nutritional requirements is important to having a healthy pet. You want to know how many calories your pet should be consuming as well as what types of food. You should consider asking them about the rotational diet and whether your pet could benefit from this.
How Much Exercise Should My Pet Get?
There is no definite answer to the amount of exercise your pet should get. The truth is that this can vary depending on the breed, age, medical history, and so much more. This is why it is best to discuss this with your vet.
Is My Pet at a Healthy Weight?
Weight control is especially important for pets. There is an obesity epidemic for pets just as there is for people. Knowing your pet’s ideal weight and what you can do to help with this will allow you to keep your pet healthy.
Is This Behavior Normal?
It is normal for pets to have their own quirks. Your pet may have something they do on a regular basis or even after a series of events has occurred. It is a good idea to talk about this with your vet to find out whether this is normal or indicative of something else.
What Dental Procedures do You Recommend?
As a puppy your dog generally does not need to worry about dental care. However, as your pet ages you will need to provide them with dental care. This can be as simple as a cleaning, though there may be other work that needs to be done. Your vet can tell you what to expect with this and may even provide this for you.
Are These Skin Changes Normal?
As your dog ages, their skin and coat will change as well. You may notice that their fur takes on a different texture than it once had and they may get lumps under the skin. These can be perfectly normal but there is a chance that it could be a sign of a greater problem. Talk with your vet to understand this.
What Other Tests are Needed?
Sure you want to get out of the vet without emptying your bank account, but it is important that you give your pet the best care possible. You may find that your pet could benefit from a blood test to look for something or even just a rectal exam. Your vet can tell you what is recommended and why.