Do you have an upcoming appointment at our Burleson, TX animal clinic? While it’s likely that your furry friend would prefer to stay at home and take another nap, regular visits are critical to your pet’s health and wellbeing. This is an excellent time to seek personalized care advice to ensure that your beloved pet remains happy and healthy for as long as possible. As your veterinarians, we are always happy to answer your questions!

Here are some things you might want to ask about:

What Should My Pet Be Eating?

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on pet food, but you should ensure that your pet is getting a good, nourishing diet that meets their specific needs and is appropriate for their age, health, and lifestyle. While we are happy to make suggestions on things like ingredients and serving sizes.

How Much Activity Does My Pet Need?

This one is particularly applicable to dogs. Cats’ exercise routines are largely self-regulated. (Our feline overlords also consider catching Zs to be a legitimate form of exercise, but that’s a separate topic.)

Doggy exercise requirements vary greatly from pup to pup. Size really factors in here. A Chihuahua may get enough exercise just running around on its tiny legs, but a Labrador Retriever may require an hour or more of vigorous activity daily. Age also matters, of course: a senior won’t have anywhere near the energy a puppy does.

Your cute pet’s breed and physiology are also important. Brachys, such as pugs, should never be encouraged to run, jump, or swim because they have short airways and lose their breath quickly. It’s important to know Fido’s do’s and don’ts.

What Vaccines Does My Pet Need?

Pets are susceptible to a wide range of illnesses and diseases. There is no way to protect your pet from every possible threat, but vaccines are available for many of the most common ones.

We generally recommend that all dogs and cats receive the core vaccinations. Your veterinarian may recommend additional vaccines. For instance, kennels, airlines, groomers, and day cares typically require the Bordetella vaccine. Other non-core vaccines that your pet may benefit from are the lepto vaccine, rattlesnake vaccines, and others.

How are My Pet’s Teeth?

Dental health is equally important for pets as it is for humans. Fluffy and Fido are unable to clean their own choppers, and cannot exactly call us to schedule dental cleanings or other treatments. However, abscesses, gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, infections, and misalignments can cause excruciating pain and result in serious infections.

In addition to having your veterinarian examine your pet’s teeth, you may want to get some advice on home dental care.

What Parasite Control Products Does My Pet Need?

We cannot overstate the value of a good preventative care regimen. Protecting your pet from harmful parasites and diseases is cheaper, easier, and more effective than treating them. It’s also less stressful for your pet.

What Are My Pet’s Grooming Needs?

Pets’ bathing and grooming requirements also vary significantly. A dog with short, sleek fur may only need to be bathed every few months, whereas one with thick hair may require monthly baths. Your veterinarian can also advise you on grooming products and techniques, as well as whether your pet requires any medical grooming procedures, such as anal gland expression.

Is My Pet At A Healthy Weight?

Sometimes it’s simple to tell if a pet is overweight or underweight. If Fido or Fluffy is round, it’s likely that they’re, well, a bit chubby. On the other end of the spectrum, a pet with protruding ribs may need to gain weight. There’s also a lot of middle ground here, where you’re maybe not sure if your pet is overweight, underweight, or just right. Your vet should be the judge.

A word of caution: sudden, unexplained weight loss or gain may indicate illness or disease. If your four-legged friend is suddenly growing or shrinking and you don’t know why, it’s definitely something to consider, contact our Burleson, TX pet clinic.

What Health Issues Could Affect My Pet?

Pets may also be genetically predisposed to specific conditions. For example, puppies with white coats are more prone to vision and hearing loss. German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the breeds at risk for hip dysplasia, while pugs are prone to eye injuries. Determine whether your pet is at an increased risk of developing any conditions.

Keep in mind that, while breed is important, it is not the only consideration. Your pet’s history is also important. For example, pets given steroids may be more likely to develop diabetes.

What Are The Treatment Options For My Arthritic Pet?

For instance, arthritis is very common, particularly in older animals. While the condition isn’t reversible, there are options. We always offer treatment plans based on the individual pet and diagnosis, of course. Ask your Burleson, TX veterinarians for more information. 

Book An Appointment At Our Burleson, TX Pet Hospital

Is it time for your beloved pet to get an exam, vaccinations, or parasite control? Are you looking for an excellent veterinary clinic? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. As your neighborhood Burleson, TX veterinary hospital, we’re here to help.