When you bring a dog into your family, you can look forward to many years of love and fun times with your pet. However, In order for your dog to live a long, healthy, and happy life, you will need to give them the proper care. Part of this has to do with giving them the things they need at home, and part of it has to do with making sure they are cared for properly healthwise. You likely know the importance of taking the dog to the vet for its first exam and first set of shots and then bringing them in regularly after that for check-ups and vaccinations. However, there are other important reasons for taking your dog to the vet. Some of these include:
Microchipping
While your dog is at the veterinarian hospital for most other reasons, you can also have them microchipped. This means the vet places a very small chip under the skin of your dog, it is usually placed between their shoulder blades. Most dogs take getting microchipped as easily as they do getting their shots. This chip can be scanned if your dog is ever found after being lost and it will display your contact info.
Spaying or neutering
Females are spayed and males are neutered. This is done to prevent them from breeding. All pets should be spayed or neutered, even if you plan on them always being inside pets. They can escape and end up breeding accidentally. Also, a dog that isn't fixed can end up having behavioral problems like spraying and trying to get out. They can also be more aggressive when they haven't been fixed.
Dental care
You should brush your dog's teeth with dog toothpaste and the right size toothbrush. However, it can be hard to get all their teeth completely, especially if they fight and pull away. Taking them in for annual cleanings ensures any buildup on their teeth will be cleaned off. Their teeth can also be checked for problems and the vet can treat any dental issues that come up
Flea and tick treatment
Another reason to take your dog to the vet is to get them started on a prescription of flea and tick preventative medication. You can usually pick up their ongoing treatments without a need for another visit unless the vet sees a reason for them to be checked so often. If your dog has fleas and/or ticks on them, then you can take them to the veterinarian hospital and have the fleas and ticks removed from them.
Contact a local vet hospital to learn more.
Share