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Pet Supplies Tips :: Health Care for Pets
Health Care for Pets: Health Care Routines and Maintenance for Pets
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Routine health care for pets is critical to their ongoing well-being and overall health. In addition to feeding and exercising your pets, you need to maintain their general health.
These measures include regular veterinarian visits, parasite control, dental care, grooming and more. To learn more about each preventive health care measure, keep reading.
Regular Veterinarian Care
Adult cats and dogs should have a complete veterinary examination at least once a year. Meanwhile, puppies should visit the veterinarian every 3 to 4 weeks until they're 4 months old. Senior dogs should see their veterinarian twice a year as illness is more common in older dogs.
Your veterinarian may recommend an ongoing wellness program for your pet, including routine blood work to monitor for problems such as early kidney or liver disease. They will also look for signs of illness, possibly prescribe medication and may administer disease vaccinations.
Parasite Control
The primary intestinal parasites of dogs and cats include roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. These worms damage the digestive tract or interfere with absorption of essential nutrients.
Intestinal parasites are typically diagnosed after finding worm eggs or actual worms in your pet's feces.
Fecal samples should be tested periodically and is typically done at your annual veterinarian checkup or on an as-needed basis.
Heartworm is an especially dangerous parasite for most pets. It is transmitted by mosquito bites and will live in the major blood vessels of the lung, causing inflammation and potentially resulting in heart damage and death. It is painful and devastating – meaning investing in heartworm prevention medicine of probably the best preventive health care for pets.
Common external parasites include fleas, ticks and mites. Monthly preventive measures include regular grooming, baths, spray and a thorough inspection for bites or bugs.
Dental Care
Cats and dogs need regular dental care to prevent tartar buildup and tooth decay. Typically, dogs need ongoing dental care, like a light, daily tooth brushing. Cats are typically fine with a few dental treats and the occasional vet visit.
You can help keep your dog's teeth and gums in good condition by brushing their teeth regularly and providing them with certain toys like flossies or dental bones.
Grooming
Loose or shed hair cannot only mat and cause problems, it can also be inhaled and lead to digestive issues or hair balls. Keep your pet well groomed to avoid skin irritation, which can also lead to bacterial or parasite infection.
Remember, health care for pets goes beyond treating a disease or health problem once it occurs, it's about preventive action and ongoing health care. So, provide your pet with a long and healthy life through ongoing grooming, good dental care, parasite prevention and regular veterinarian visits.
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PetSuppliesTips.com :: Health Care for Pets