DOG CARE

By: Dr.Elizabeth Gibbs
Escondido Humane Society Staff Veterinarian

Your veterinarian plays an important role in your puppy or dog's life. It is essential to choose a veterinarian upon acquiring your new dog, or even beforehand! Dogs should have annual or bi-annual wellness visits with their veterinarian. Puppies will need to go more often in the first year to get all the vaccinations they need and to be spayed or neutered. At your vet visits, your dog may get vaccines, diagnostic tests like fecal analysis or blood work, as well as a complete exam. Dogs can also get teeth cleaning as part of regular preventative care. It is very important to see your vet regularly, even if you think your dog is well, so that they remain healthy.

Probably the most important thing you can do for your new dog or puppy is to have them spayed or neutered. No dog is adopted from the Escondido Humane Society without being spayed or neutered. This helps to reduce pet overpopulation and allows your dog to live a healthier, longer life. Spaying and neutering reduces the risks of certain diseases and cancers, as well as making your dog more affectionate. Spayed and neutered dogs are less likely to roam or wander, get into fights, or bite. It is NOT true that neutering or spaying your dog makes them fat and lazy, that is only caused by too much food and not enough activity!

Vaccines protect your dog from illness and disease. Dogs are required by law to be vaccinated for Rabies at 4 months of age, then yearly or every 3 years after that for life. There are other vaccines that are highly recommended and others that are optional depending upon your dog's lifestyle and environment. It is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal vaccine schedule for your dog or puppy. Puppies will need 2 or 3 sets of vaccines in their first year, as will some adult dogs if you don't know their vaccine history. After that, yearly vaccines are the best protection for the life of your dog.

These days, vet visits are not limited to vaccines, spaying and neutering. Dogs are able to have advanced dental work done, as well as regular preventative cleanings. They can be blood tested for heartworm disease and given a monthly preventative medication. Chronic diseases are better managed now with earlier detection, surgery, and medical care. There is even pet insurance now, to help make veterinary care more affordable.