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Your pet's overall health depends on routine vet visits

Within the United States there are nearly 75 million pet dogs, that’s more than most other countries. Owning a pet comes with many responsibilities. One of the main responsibilities is making sure you take your pet to a vet clinic. Your local vet can help ensure that your pet’s overall health is taken care of with vaccinations, check-ups, teeth cleaning, flea and tick meds, neutering services as well as other vet services. Dogs, cats, and other types of pets all need check-ups so they can live a healthy, happy, and long life.

Be Sure to Schedule Routine Vet Visits

Do you typically wait to take your pet to the vet until you notice something is wrong? When you schedule routine visits it is easier to track how well your pet is progressing as they age. Also, underlying conditions could be detected so proper medical attention can be given. If your pet ends up having serious issues, they can be addressed immediately by a vet that spotted the problem. It is vital that health conditions are treated as soon as a problem is spotted to either slow down the condition or correct it. Visiting a vet clinic just shows that you truly care about your pet.

Understand What to Expect During a Check-Up

An animal hospital or vet clinic is the perfect place to take your pet for a check-up. It is important that you understand what happens during a check-up so you can prepare yourself and handle your pet accordingly. Typically, a check-up consists of a physical examination. Your local veterinarian will do a ‘nose-to-tail’ check by carefully and methodically moving along your pet’s form to inspect their paws, mouth, teeth, coat, skin, tail and every area in-between. Your pet needs check-ups no matter their age. Book appointments regularly to keep your pet in great health.

Is Your Pet Up-to-Date with Vaccinations?

An crucial part of keeping your pet healthy is making sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Taking your pet for a visit to a vet clinic for vaccinations can ensure that they are protected against fatal diseases while also keeping you and other animals in your household safe. Your pet’s well-being depends on receiving the appropriate vaccinations at different intervals of their life. Discuss vaccination options with your vet to learn more.

It is important to understand there is no over-vaccinating. A lot of vaccines are actually promoted by vets and have been discussed during World Vet Day. Every year, on the final Saturday of April, veterinarians from all over the globe work to raise awareness concerning a particular theme. In the past, the theme has been vaccinations in the hope to highlight the risks unvaccinated pets are under. Vaccines are needed for pets of all ages. Be sure to ask your vet about your pet’s vaccinations to ensure they are all caught up on them.

De-Stress Your Pet Before a Vet Visit

You want your visit to the vet to be productive. A lot of dogs and cats both tend to know when they are headed to the vet and seem to become nervous and upset. So many strange smells, sights, people, sounds, and other animals could frighten or distract your pet. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help ease their stress. Release extra energy before a vet visit by taking your pet on a walk or playing with them. Nervous energy can be released and possibly even prevent unnecessary accidents from happening in the vet clinic.

If you have a small dog or cat, it may be a good idea to take them to the vet in a carrier. This can keep them from becoming combative with other animals and vice versa. A carrier is a good choice for pets that would possibly run away, or they are sick. Give your pet a chance to rest upon a soft blanket with a familiar toy in the carrier to keep them comfortable and calm.

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