For humans, we’re aware that routine trips to the doctor or dentist are important preventative techniques for early detection and the ongoing treatment of a host of conditions. It’s the same for our pets; regular visits to the vet can significantly improve early diagnosis and treatment of the issues that impact your cat or dog’s health. At our animal clinic in Toronto, we understand that your pet is part of your family and offer a variety of treatments and convenient services to make sure your animal is and remains healthy. Equipped with modern tools and techniques, our vets provide your dog or cat with professional, compassionate, and thorough treatment. Here are a few notes on how routine visits can keep your best friend healthy and prevent illness.
How Routine Visits Keep Your Pet Healthy Scheduling a regular checkup will build a relationship between you, your pet, and your veterinarian. Routine vet checkups include listening to their heart and lungs, running their hands over their abdomen to check for any unusual signs, checking for skin/coat, eye and ear, teeth and gums, as well as any blood-test required. Another advantage of these annual check-ups is to get your dog used to visiting the vet when they’re well so they don’t become nervous about seeing the vet. One of the primary reasons for a thorough physical examination annually for your pet is the early detection of a potentially serious illness and if necessary, starting treatments earlier. Regular health assessments will also help you with:
Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up-to-date, including rabies, distemper, leptospirosis, adenovirus, and parvovirus as well as parainfluenza and Bordetella (kennel cough).
Knowing the best product to control heartworm, fleas, and intestinal worms, and to discuss a preventative health care plan for your pet with your vet.
Understanding weight and body conditions, obesity is an all-too common problem in pets. Talk to your vet about a diet and exercise plan.
Behaviour treatments and prevention, this is your opportunity to ask questions about any unusual or unsociable behaviour your dog’s displaying like excessive barking, biting or chewing your shoes the minute your back is turned. Your vet can help you look after your pet’s emotional and mental health, offer you some useful tips, and/or refer you to a trained behaviourist.
Dental care, particularly important in older dogs as dental disease can not only cause pain but could also lead to problems with their internal organs.
Senior dogs tend to get a few more aches and pains, so your vet might recommend more frequent check-ups.
Your Vet Will Be Happy That You Asked Mention any problems you’ve noticed, however small, or any lumps and bumps you’d like a second opinion on. Sometimes treatment is as simple as a change in diet; for example there are specific foods that can slow the progression of kidney disease, joint disease, and canine dementia. Microchipping and neutering are also important and should be done when your pet is still young, but it’s never too late. Book an Appointment with Our Animal Clinic for Your Animal’s Next Check-Up At our animal clinic, our veterinarians are passionate about making sure your pet lives a long, healthy and happy life. Contact Bellamy-Lawrence Animal Hospital at 416-289-2524 today if you have any questions, or feel free to drop in for a walk in appointment. Our offices are located in Toronto but often have patients throughout the GTA (Greater Toronto Area), including Scarborough, Markham and Pickering!
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