It is well known that pets bring nothing but joy into our lives, providing us with unconditional love and support in times of need. It is only right that we return the favor by taking care of them properly. One of the best ways to do that is to maintain their health by finding the best local veterinarian to perform various examinations to ensure they are healthy and happy. 

Unfortunately, these vet checkups can be quite overwhelming for pet owners because they aren’t always sure what to expect. That’s why it is advised that you come well prepared with a list of important questions to ask your vet next time you schedule a vet appointment. Although pet breeds vary from one another, there are five general questions that apply to pets of all kinds which you should ask on every visit.

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What types of blood tests should my pet do?

Doing blood tests on a regular basis is the best way to ensure your pet’s health is in great shape. Through these examinations, your vet will be able to discover if your furball is suffering from any health issues and provide them with immediate treatment, if necessary, to prevent further development.

Therefore, if you suspect that something is wrong with your pet, ask your vet what blood tests your pet needs to do to determine their current health status. In most cases, this includes a complete blood count which detects various disorders and other abnormalities.

What diet do you recommend?

One of the most important responsibilities of pet owners is providing their four-legged friend with a well-balanced diet. If your pet is a dog, you should make sure to choose the food you feed it wisely. Remember that dogs are particularly vulnerable to a bad diet.  It’s best if you stick to quality, freshly cooked dog food. While you could give your dog raw meat, there is a danger that your dog won’t be able to fully digest raw meat.

When it comes to buying dog food, you should make sure that the dog food is fortified with vitamins. The dog food must also be free of preservatives and is well packed. Before you invest in any kind of food for your dog, you should do as much research as possible. Remember that you will be spending a good amount of money on this dog food, so you should get the best. This includes giving them food that is rich in various nutrients, vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining their overall health.

However, because all pet breeds differ from one another, you should ask your vet which diet will best suit your bud’s needs. The only way to know is to break down any health concerns you may have and see what your pet’s nutritional requirements are and then monitor their reaction.

Does my pet need dental cleaning?

Dental diseases are one of the most common medical problems among pets. If left untreated, they can lead to more severe health complications such as issues with the kidney, liver and even heart. An effective way of preventing these from happening is to ask your vet when your pet is due for a dental cleaning.

The great thing about this is that you can actually do the cleaning yourself at home by regularly brushing your pet’s teeth to combat tartar buildup and prevent potential periodontal disease.

If it is necessary, your vet may also recommend professional dental cleaning.

What expenses should I expect for various checkups?

There is no going around it – vet visits can be quite costly. Whether you are going in for your pet’s annual wellness checkup or undergoing treatment, there is a great possibility it can cost you a lot. Therefore, asking your vet about your general vet expenses is highly recommended.

Most vets will tell you to obtain pet insurance to cover your costs as well as any treatments your furry animal may need in case they are suffering from a disease. There are several pet insurance plans available, so make sure you choose the one that best suits your bud’s needs.

How often should my pet be examined by a vet?

Probably the most frequently asked question is how often you should take your pet to the vet. The answer to this is simple – everything depends on your furry friend’s needs and current health condition.

Generally, you should start visiting the vet during the first six months of your pet’s life and then perform regular wellness checkups as recommended by your vet. If everything is okay, then you will do examinations twice a year.

In case there is something unusual with your pet’s health, then your vet will create a wellness plan that will be tailored to your pet’s needs.

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Final thoughts

As a pet owner, taking care of your furry animal should be your top priority. Besides providing them with a clean and safe environment and lots of love, you should also take them to the vet on a regular basis to ensure they are healthy and happy.

Because these vet visits can be quite overwhelming, you should prepare yourself by making a list of the most important questions you should ask so your vet can provide your bud with proper care and treatment in times of need.

For more information, use our post as a guide and be always prepared for your vet appointments.