Vet Care For Senior Dogs

Whether your dog is entering his twilight years or you have recently adopted an older dog from a shelter, you will find that there tends to be an increase in the amount veterinary care that your pet needs. Just as humans do, dogs become susceptible to a broad array of illness when they get older, and if they are to maintain a high quality of life, regular visits to the veterinarian can help them do this. Take some time and be aware of some of the procedures and medications that your veterinarian might deem necessary for your dog to live comfortably.

Annual Physical Exam

As your dog gets older, make sure that you take him to the vet at least once a year. If your dog has been sickly or has been showing signs of poor health or fatigue, you may find that more frequent visits are in order. For some older dogs, having an exam twice a year is ideal. Make sure that you tell your veterinarian of anything you have observed in your dog or any changes you might feel are important. Your veterinarian may also want to give your dog an oral and rectal exam as well as give him an eye exam as well. Because many dogs develop things like cataracts and glaucoma as they get older, this will be essential.

Heartworm Disease Prevention

If you live in an area where heartworm disease is common, you will want to make sure that you are regularly giving your dog something that will prevent this heavily taxing disease from taking root. Talk to your doctor and make sure that you understand the dosage that is required along with the frequency by which you give it.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are another thing that you need to consider when you are thinking about the quality of veterinary care that is necessary for your dog. Vaccinations essentially help shore up your dog's immune system, and if you want to make sure that your dog is healthy and happy, keep his vaccinations up to date. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you as to what is appropriate and necessary

Why Your Dog Might Need a Urinalysis

There are a number of problems that might be identified and then solved based on a urinalysis. This series of tests can provide your veterinarian with a wealth of information and the sample is relatively easy to obtain. Your dog's urine should be fairly consistent, and if you have noticed a change in the amount, color or odor, or if you have noticed that he is having accidents that he has not had since he was a puppy, now is the time to see if a urinalysis is in order.

Take some time to really consider what your pet dog needs. Older dogs often find themselves facing a host of medical problems, and if you want to make sure that your pet is comfortable and able to enjoy himself, be alert to the signs that something is wrong. Acting sooner than later can make all the difference when it comes to preserving your dog's life and happiness!