Locations

While it is the veterinary staff’s job to inform the owner, it is up to the owner to make the best decisions for their pet. Regular checkups are the only way to help ensure that your pet lives a happier and healthier life. Make a list of questions for your vet before the visit, along with any sort of health information provided by the shelter, pet store, or breeder. Also, throw in a blanket and toy that he is used to cuddling or playing with for familiarity to help keep him calm. Just like with human health, prevention is the key to treating a multitude of conditions that can affect our dogs and cats. If your dog is a senior—6 years old or older, in most breeds—your vet might suggest blood work to evaluate the function of your dog’s kidney, liver and other body systems. With a new puppy or kitten, your Jacksonville FL veterinarian will perform an initial physical exam to look for any signs of illness or disorder, and will perform a variety of other tests to make sure your new pet starts off on the right foot. of your pet for abnormalities, which may include the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, abdomen, heart, lungs, and joints.

Be sure to check for diabetes, thyroid disease, adrenal disease, parasites, allergies, ear infections, heart worm disease (even if your dog is on heartworm preventative, it unfortunately does not guarantee 100 percent that she/he will not get heartworm), irregular heart rhythms, kidney diseases, gingivitis, periodontal disease, and cancer. If you are considering natural therapies, be sure to consult a professional and tell your regular vet as well so they can offer their support. Sometimes the kilos creep on so slowly that you don’t notice him becoming generous around the middle. Because people’s response to vaccination reminders is so good, Jacksonville FL veterinarians are justifiably concerned that if we reduce the frequency of vaccinations to every three years, we may no longer see our patients on a regular basis, and the health of some animal companions may suffer. A yearly professional cleaning is recommended, but you should also brush your pet’s teeth at home. Just like you, your companion pet will have a complete medical file that should travel with them if they change owners, veterinarians, or where living location. Make a note of everything that’s included in the medical history so that when you request a copy to be sent to the new vet, you can verify that all pertinent documentation has been included.