Preventative veterinary medicine is the concept that focuses on preventing disease and/or early detection of disease. This is a proactive approach as opposed to a reactive approach when it comes to your pet’s health (act first, before there is a larger problem!)
The following topics (and more!) shoul dbe discussed in your pet’s wellness appointments.
Vaccines
Vaccines are available for both dogs and cats to help prevent common or harmful diseases. Vaccines are very effective and safe. There are core vaccines (which all pets receive) as well as non-core vaccines which are optional. Ask your vet which vaccines your pet may require based on their lifestyle.
Parasites
External parasites include fleas, ticks, mites and more. Click here for more information on external parasites! Internal parasites include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and more. Click here for more information on deworming! Talk to your vet about external parasite control and an appropriate deworming schedule.
Dental Care
Your pet’s teeth are important for a variety of reasons, and unhealthy teeth can become very painful. You can support your pet’s dental health by providing VOHC-approved dental toys, brushing your pet’s teeth, feeding an appropriate diet, and/or avoiding hard objects such as bones. Click here for more information on caring for your animal’s teeth!
Nutrition
There are a wide variety of pet foods available. Depending on your pet’s age, activity level, breed, as well as any conditions they may have, your veterinarian should be able to make recommendations regarding the best diet to support your pet’s needs. Click here for more information on food for pets, and here for foods that are dangerous for pets.
Disease detection
An important goal of regular wellness exams is disease surveillance. With a thorough history and physical exam, your veterinarian is able to recommend appropriate testing that will help to make a diagnosis. In many cases, treating a disease in the early stages can lead to a more successful outcome.