Episode 007: Questions Every Dog Owner Should Ask Their Veterinarian

In this episode we discuss questions every dog owner should ask their veterinarian. To get the full article visit: https://www.bostonterriersociety.com/questions-to-ask-veterinarian/ Having a dog is a lot of responsibility. It is not enough just to love them unconditionally, it is absolutely necessary to know a thing or two about how to keep them healthy. I’m not expecting every pet owner to take medical classes. I am saying, find a veterinarian that you and your dog trust, then dive into their vast knowledge pool.  If you don’t know where to start, here are some of the top questions that every dog owner needs to ask their veterinarian. 1.  What Vaccinations Does My Dog Need and When? Vaccinations are one of the best ways to keep your pup healthy. They help prevent your dog from contracting illnesses or at least decrease the severity of these illnesses if they do get them. The vaccinations your dog needs varies depending on their lifestyle and the area in which you live.   Every dog, regardless of lifestyle, age, or location, should receive the core vaccines for rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and canine hepatitis. Additional vaccines for leptospirosis, influenza, Bordetella, Lyme disease and others should be given if your veterinarian deems necessary. How Old Should Your Dog Be? Pups should be vaccinated, starting at six to eight weeks of age. Depending on the specific vaccine, boosters should be given every three to four weeks for a total of at least three.   Rabies vaccine can be given starting at 12 weeks of age. After that, some vaccinations may be given yearly or every three years or longer. This is why it is vital to discuss vaccinations with your vet to determine your dog’s best schedule. 2.  How Often Should I Bring My Dog to the Vet? Again, this is going to depend on your veterinarian. Most vets like to see you at least once a year, even if no vaccinations are required at that time. This is just to perform a general wellness exam checking for internal and external issues.  Vets also like to monitor oral health and may recommend blood work to check for hidden health issues. Don’t be surprised if your vet asks that you come in every six months, especially as your dog ages. This just helps them to keep better track of your pup’s health and to catch any problems before they become big. Of course, you’re welcome to visit as often as you see fit! 3. What Should I Feed My Dog? All dog foods are not created equal. In fact, there are vast differences out there between dog foods, and it may seem like an impossible task to pick which one is right for your dog. Obviously, if your pup has a condition in which diet is a factor, such as allergies or irritable bowel syndrome. Your vet is your number one source for dietary recommendations. However, you should also utilize your veterinarian’s knowledge to help you choose a dog food for a pup without special nutritional needs. Your veterinarian will help you choose a product that provides proper nutrition for your best friend. As well as find a dog food one that tastes good and is priced within your range. Don’t be afraid to do a little research on your own and then ask your vet’s opinion about certain dog food brands to help narrow down your search. To get the full article visit: https://www.bostonterriersociety.com/questions-to-ask-veterinarian/