Your vet should be a trusted resource for answers to all your questions about your pet's health. Whether you have specific health concerns or questions about further pet care options, your vet is on your team when it comes to keeping your pet healthy and happy.
At Kirrawee Vet Hospital, we prioritise being proactive and addressing concerns about your dog, cat, or other animals. But you can help us out by coming prepared with a list of questions to ask at your pet’s first vet appointment. Here are a few ideas:
It's always a good idea to ask if your furry friend is up to date on their vaccinations. If it turns out that they are due for another shot, you can get it done while you're already at the vet's office and save yourself a trip back.
Blood tests serve multiple purposes for your pet. For one, if your pet is acting differently than normal, a blood test can reveal if they are dealing with a serious illness or at risk for one. Secondly, getting regular blood tests for your pet gives your vet a baseline to compare against over time.
Good health starts with proper nutrition. Your vet can recommend diets and foods for your pet's age, lifestyle, breed or health conditions. Furthermore, you should ask your vet if your pet is at a healthy weight. If your pet is over or underweight, making a change to their diet is the best way to respond.
If your pet is exhibiting strange behaviours, it could be a sign of something serious. Who better than your vet to ask if you should be concerned about any odd behaviours?
Let's say, for example, that your puppy is sneezing and having trouble breathing every time he goes outside. Don't assume that these are just harmless allergies! Instead, keep a running list of every time your puppy experiences this. Then, at your puppy's first vet visit, you'll already have a log and questions to ask.
Many pets experience some degree of periodontal disease without their owners ever knowing about it. If left untreated, dental problems can lead to serious health complications. Ask your vet to check your pet's teeth to see if they are due for a dental cleaning or need dental care.
Whether your pet is due for a visit to the vet, exhibiting uncommon behaviours, or visiting for the first time, being proactive is always the answer to better veterinary health! You can schedule an appointment at Kirrawee Veterinary Hospital today by calling us on 02 9521 6422 or sending us a message online. We see pet patients in the local areas of Sylvania, Sutherland and Miranda.