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Parasite Treatment
-
Treatment for parasites needs
to be tailored to the lifestyle
of your pet. The products
available, and how often they
should be used, can be
discussed during your pet’s
check-up.
Dietary advice
- The link
between good nutrition and
health applies to pets as much
as it does to people. Obesity
is becoming more common
in dogs and cats, causing
significant health issues such
as increased risk of diabetes
and arthritis.
Dental Disease
- This is very
common in pets over 3 years
old resulting in bad breath,
gum disease, lost teeth and a
painful mouth.
Others
- your pet’s heart will
be checked for early signs of
heart disease. The general
physical examination is also
useful to detect ‘lumps and
bumps’. You can also discuss
any other problems your pet
might be experiencing, such as
lameness, increased thirst or
other symptoms.
3
Frequency of
Health Checks
For young animals in good
health, a routine check-up
every six months is
recommended (one of these
will coincide with the annual
vaccination). Older animals
and animals on long-term
medication will benefit from
more frequent check-ups.
by
Keith R Barrand BVetMed CertSAM CBiol MRSB CertAVP (VetGP)(GSAS) MRCVS
Fenwold Veterinary Practice Ltd
Key Points
All pets are vulnerable
to parasites and should
therefore receive regular
preventive anti-parasite
medication. The most
effective of these are
prescription-only
medicines (POM-Vs),
meaning that they can
only be obtained from
your veterinary surgeon.
Some parasites, e.g.
roundworms, can cause
serious disease in people
who come into contact
with affected pets.
Key Point
The diet most suitable for
your pet can be discussed
during a health check.
Key Point
If spotted in time, dental
disease can be treated
and the signs reversed.
Key Point
Based on average life
spans, dog and cats ‘age’
at a rate 5 - 7 times faster
than people. Changes can
occur in a short space
of time.
Summary
Routine health checks can
help your pet lead a long
and happy life.