Well done! Don’t jeopardize your pet’s health by ignoring a yearly wellness examination, which should include both medical and dental screening. The annual physical check-up is the vet’s opportunity to identify medical issues before they become serious problems. These routine exams become even more important as your pet ages.
For life. Keep your pet current with vaccinations. Both cats and dogs should be vaccinated for rabies and other infectious diseases, such as distemper. For some patients this may be needed on a yearly basis, or in others, every three years.
Heart to heart. Have your pet checked for heartworm, a fatal but easily preventable infection. Even if your vet has determined, through a simple blood test, that your pet is free of heartworm, you should begin a prevention program immediately (this prevention program is not always standard in San Francisco).
Snip… If you haven’t already done so have your pet spayed or neutered. This is the most important way of preventing unwanted litters of puppies and kittens, and of reducing the numbers of homeless animals in shelters and on the streets. The surgery has many health and behavioral benefits, too.
...and chip! Have your pet microchipped. This method of identification is a simple, inexpensive procedure and is the most effective way to recover a lost pet.
Help the medicine go down. Be knowledgeable about the medications your pet is receiving. Know the exact dosage, frequency of administration, and potential complications and side effects. And always finish the regimen of medication (tablets or liquid) that your vet has prescribed. Keep copies of your pet’s medical records; they are extremely useful if he ever needs to visit the emergency hospital.
Be prepared. Take a Pet First Aid course so you’ll know what to do if your pet suddenly becomes sick or is injured. Organize a Pet Disaster Preparedness Kit so that if an emergency should occur you’ll be better equipped to take care of your pet.
Walk the walk. Walk your dog every day; this provides vital physical exercise and mental stimulation. Sign up for a rewards-based training class with your dog or puppy; you’ll learn how to train your dog, and take pride in his behavior. Or sign up for a doggy sport class – agility, flyball, or the new rage, Rally O. You and your pooch will have loads of fun and make new friends. And help keep your pooch stimulated, especially when he’s alone, by stocking up on chewies and puzzle toys.
Play along. Have daily play sessions with interactive toys with your cat. This promotes bonding, and helps keep her physically and mentally active. In addition, keep your cat indoors at all times (she’ll live longer) and install window screens to prevent escape or dangerous falls.
A happy, healthy 2007 to pets and their humans everywhere!
