October is National Pet Wellness Month. That means, this would be a great time for you to consider the care of your pet.
Every year, or even more, it’s good to take a step back and think about any appointments your dog or cat may have had, or any that they may need. You might be thinking, “well, I think about those things often, why do I need to do it once a year?” Perk up your ears, and we will go through some common thoughts pet parents have in common, and some questions we should all be asking ourselves.
What kind of relationship do I have with my Veterinarian?
Sure, you might think you have a good relationship with your vet, but do you really? Are you able to comfortably have a conversation with your vet? Does your vet listen to your thoughts as well as your concerns?
These are all so important when it comes to having a good, trusting relationship with one and other. Personally, I have been through a few different Veterinarians before finding one that best suits myself, and my pets. Now that I know what it is to have 100% faith in them, I can’t believe the difference. I give thanks to my good friend M.K Clinton for helping me realize just how important it is that I can feel comfortable talking to my veterinarian, and the inspiration behind this post.
How often do you vaccinate your pets?
This is such a hot topic for debate nowadays. How much should you vaccinate your pets? How do I know if I am over – vaccinating? How do I know if I am under – vaccinating? All of these questions float around our minds, and who do we turn to for the answers?
Certainly not me, I only know what’s best for my own dogs. The truth is, there is not one answer for these questions. Different strokes for different folks, and all that good stuff! Which is exactly why it is important to have a great relationship with your vet. You need to be able to sit down and have a comfortable, long conversation with your vet about which vaccinations will fit your pets. For example, dogs and cats who spend most of their time indoors may need different vaccines than pets who live outdoors. Areas where lime disease is prevalent, may need different vaccines than somewhere where lime disease is barely heard of.
Should I spay/neuter my pets?
I think the answer to this is personal to each individual. I am very pro rescue, and always encourage people to spay/neuter their pets. That being said, I don’t think there is anything wrong with a good, reputable breeder who takes time to keep their dogs healthy, and do regular check ups. I encourage spay and neuter because the number of pets ending up in shelters is astronomical. Overpopulated and understaffed, it is nearly impossible to keep up. BUT – it still remains a personal choice. My advice would be to have a conversation with your vet, decide whether or not you should spay/neuter your pet.
Is my pet overweight?
A lot of people think dogs and cats who are a little overweight are simply “healthy.” The truth is, even a small amount of excess weight can be bad for your pet’s health. Perhaps as part of this month’s Pet Wellness, you could make an appointment with your vet to discuss some different methods of weight loss, to achieve optimal health for your pet.
These questions, along with many others often float around in pet owners’ heads. But the difference is whether or not we act on them. Don’t let something sit in your head. If you are concerned for your pet, the best thing you can do is talk to your veterinarian about it.
Do you have questions or concerns about your pet?
Share them with us in the comments, and I will do my best to answer, or advise!
Jenna Drady
Jenna Drady is the author and creator of ownedbyahusky.ca. She is a mother of two beautiful daughters and 3 Siberian Huskies. Being a husky mom for a long duration of her life, Jenna was inspired to begin writing about them. In doing so, she began doing massive research on dog behavior, and all things dog in general. Jenna is inspired every day by her family, and loves to bring her readers valuable information as well as a little humor too! Jenna has created her own business partnered with her lovely mother while blogging called Pawz N Clawz Jewelry N Things. They currently sell handmade jewelry with added pet charms, as well as a few dog toys too! As an animal rights activist, and huge believer in helping pets who have been stuck in shelters, they donate a portion of their sales to local shelters throughout Canada.
