When to Visit the Vet
How often to you take your pup to the vet? As leading providers of Littleton dog training services, we often speak to pet owners who are unsure just how often they should be visiting the vet. Because regular check-ups are an essential part of protecting your dog’s health, we are devoting today’s post to the topic.
When Puppies Should Go To The Vet
During puppydom, you will need to take your pup to the vet often in order to keep up with their vaccine regimen. Vaccines are essential to protecting your pup’s health, as well as the health of those around them. For the first year of your puppy’s life, you should expect to see the vet every 3 to 4 weeks. During this year, your dog should receive shots for distemper-parvo, kennel cough, rabies, Lyme disease and any other diseases your vet feels your dog should be protected from. In addition, your puppy will need treatment for heartworm and flea and tick prevention. Your pup’s needs will vary based upon the region in which you live and the outdoor elements you plan to introduce them to. It is also important to discuss spaying or neutering at the 6-month mark.
When To Take Maturing Dogs To Vet
Once your pup has reached his or her first birthday, you will not have to visit the vet quite so regularly. Barring any health concerns, you should plan to visit your vet annually for a check-up. During this visit, your vet will provide a full body exam and may run blood and fecal tests for certain diseases. You will need to have your pup’s distemper-parvo shot and rabies booster administered every 3 years. Talk to your vet and plan ahead to ensure you do not allow your dog’s vaccines to lapse.
Senior Dogs and Visiting The Vet
Your dog officially enters their senior years at the age of 7. For most dog owners, the time period between puppydom and their golden years passes quickly. Though you might still feel like your best friend is a pup, it’s important to start paying closer attention to their health at this point. You may need to start visiting the vet more often. Just as you have always done, you will need to take your dog in for their vaccine and shot regime. In addition, your vet may begin running blood and urine tests to ensure your dog’s kidney and liver are healthy. Depending on your dog’s level of health, there are additional tests that can be run to check for issues associated with aging.
Do Your Part
No matter your dog’s age, it’s up to you to advocate for their health. Watch for changes in behavior, even the smallest detail can be very important to your vet. At Sit Means Sit South Denver, we are not only leading Littleton dog trainers, we are animal lovers. It’s our mission in life to help raise happy, obedient, confident dogs. Taking care of their health is a big part of our responsibility as pet owners. We encourage you to find a vet you trust and schedule your appointments ahead of time. Make your dog’s health a priority!
Schedule Your Free Dog Training Consultation Today!
Are you ready to learn how we’re helping area dog owners raise happy, obedient pups? We serve clients all over South Denver in towns like Littleton, Edgewood, Aurora and more. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and discover the Sit Means Sit difference. While you’re here, be sure and connect with us on our social media channels: Facebook, Twitter & Google+.