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Health Check- Ups
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A constant watch should be kept on your dog's health. This is best done by routinely examining your pet for signs of illness, infection or disease. If in doubt about anything concerning your dog's health it is important to contact the vet. UK veterinary medicine has advanced in leaps and bounds in the past few years. What was untreatable just a
few years ago can now be cleared up by the veterinary clinic within days. If you've
taken out a
pet insurance
policy it won't cost you a penny either!
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Here's a summary of what you should look out for…
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Mouth, teeth and gums - Look for redness, bleeding or swelling in the gums and in the mouth in general. Most canine dental problems can be avoided by giving your dog a healthy balanced diet.
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Skin irritations - Check over your dog's body for signs of skin soreness / redness and dried blood. Should an open wound be found it is best to get your dog to the vets as quickly as possible.
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Lumps and bumps on the body - Feel along your dog's body for unusual lumps and bumps. Again, if anything out of the ordinary is discovered take your dog to the vet.
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Many UK veterinary clinics now offer comprehensive health check-ups for dogs. Vaccinations / boosters and preventative treatments for worms and fleas can be dealt with at the same time too, the costs of which could be covered by your pet's insurance.
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Exercise
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All dog owners know that dogs need exercise. How much exercise is dependent on the age of the dog and its general level of health. Older dogs naturally require less exercise than younger ones. But that is not to say that walks should ever be stopped altogether. How your dog responds to walks is the best indication of how much exercise it requires. Look out for signs of tiredness on your route around. If tiredness is a persistent feature start shortening the walks.
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Grooming
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Dog grooming is a vital part of the dog-owner relationship. It helps to strengthen the bond between owner and pet, as well as serving to keep your dog's coat in good condition and free from knots and tangles. Long-haired dogs should be groomed two or three times each week. The same goes for dogs with rough coats. For smooth-coated dogs grooming once a week is recommended.
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IMPORTANT: If your dog loses its appetite and starts drinking excessive amounts of water you should seek veterinary care immediately. These symptoms can be a sign that something is seriously wrong. A quick trip to the vets could resolve the issue and prevent your pet's condition from worsening.
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