Bringing your pet in for regular wellness exams with our Los Angeles veterinarians plays a key role in maintaining their long-term health. Get the most out of your visit by asking your vet these important questions about your furry companion's health and well-being.
What To Ask Your Vet
Your vet is a wealth of knowledge. During your pet's regular wellness exams, be sure to ask them any questions you might have about your pet's health or lifestyle needs. Sometimes vet visits can be stressful so it t may be helpful to write down a list of questions before you go. Some great questions to ask to improve your pet's long-term health are:
1. Is my pet an appropriate weight?
While a few extra pounds (or even ounces for smaller pets) might make your pet seem "cute and fluffy", carrying extra weight can increase your pet's chances of developing serious long-term conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
Your vet will be able to tell you if your pet's weight is appropriate for their size and offer you nutritional counseling to ensure your pet is eating the right amount and type of food.
2. How much exercise should my pet be getting?
Different breeds and sizes of dogs need different amounts of exercise. Our Ambassador Dog & Cat Hospital vets will be able to tell you on average how much exercise your pooch should be receiving on a daily basis.
They will also take into consideration any underlying health issues your dog might have and make exercise recommendations that will accommodate your pup.
3. Is my pet due for any routine vaccinations or preventative measures?
One of the most common issues our veterinarians see in the Los Angeles area are pets that aren't up to date with their vaccinations and preventive measures. An easy way to keep your pet healthy is to stop issues before they start. Getting vaccines and preventive measures such as tick, heartworm, and parasite protection will help your pet live a long, healthy life. Be sure to ask your vet if your pet is due.
4. Are there any breed-specific conditions I should be aware of?
While most medical conditions can affect any breed of dog, some health issues are more likely to affect certain breeds or types of dogs. For example, dogs with long, floppy ears are more prone to ear infections and certain breeds of dogs, such as Bull Mastiffs and Saint Bernards are predisposed to a type of cancer called lymphoma.
Knowing the risks and symptoms of potential complications with your dog will help you to look for early signs and get treatment as soon as possible should the need arise.
5. How often should I get my pet's teeth cleaned?
Regular dental checkups are vital for long-term health. Poor oral hygiene is linked to a variety of serious conditions and can cause your pet a lot of pain and discomfort.
For most pets, an annual dental cleaning should suffice. During a dental appointment at our pet hospital in Los Angeles, our vets will thoroughly clean and examine your pet's teeth to ensure everything is healthy. If your pet is experiencing any sort of oral hygiene issue, your vet may recommend that you visit more often in order to keep their mouth in good shape.