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To find a good Veterinarian, ask around. You could get recommendations from your local shelter, breeders, or just your friends (you know, the ones with healthy dogs). Go to the clinic in which you will be received for appointments or emergencies, and use some common sense. A clean, well staffed facility presents itself. You should feel comfortable asking questions about your pet, and it should inspire a sense of confidence when you consider this place to be the primary emergency room for your pet.
In addition to check-ups for sickness or injuries, an annual visit to the Vet is also recommended. While knowing your pets habits and being familiar with them is the best thing you can do for your animal, your Vet may be able to use their experience and spot other problems before they arise.
For your annual check-ups, your Veterinarian should be discussing a few things with you about your dog, both asking you questions and answering yours. These will fall into categories like:
- Behavior - where any changes or anomalies have been present
- Vaccinations - current status and any potential need for more
- Teeth - Noting rate of decay and making recommendations
- Parasites - Preventative control or dealing with any problems present
- General Nutrition - you should ask if anything diet or exercise related needs changing, your Vet should ask if anything has changed
- Physical - a general physical with the same feedback your would expect from your own doctor
You should expect your Vet to ask you some questions also (it's not the best sign if they don't). First of all if there has been anything out of the ordinary with your dog you should let the Vet know as early as possible. Be prepared to answer questions such as the names and quantities of any medications or supplements that your pet takes. You'll also be asked how much exercise they get, and if they haven't been getting enough you have to be honest.
Ask your Vet ahead of time if a stool sample is required. Dogs should be checked for parasites each year as a preventative measure.
Remember to try and view any behavioral issues your dog may have experienced recently as having possible health connections. Mentioning things such as unusual housetraining issues, aggression or lethargy is a good idea.
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| Basic Dog Health |
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| Adult Dog Care |
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