Key Things to Ask your Pet Doctor

Visiting the vet might not be a daily or weekly routine, but it is one of the activities that a pet owner must take very seriously. For most pet owners, a visit to the vet is only done at least once a year, or only when their pet gets sick. However, vets encourage pet owners to take their pet regularly for a checkup. Many health and dental issues can be tackled more effectively if they’re spotted early, and vets will be able to help you and your pet on animal health and illnesses.

Most people think raising too many questions repeatedly can be maddening for doctors. In fact, they don’t mind it at all. Pet owners should not hesitate to open up their concerns for their furry friends. Keeping a list of questions that you would like to ask will help both pet owners and vets.

The Pet Food Institute (PFI), trade association for U.S. pet food brands, and Veterinary Practitioners Association of the Philippines (VPAP), believes every pet deserves expert guidance to sustain good health and a good life. With its Well-Fed, Well-Nourished campaign geared towards responsible pet ownership through proper nutrition and care, PFI and VPAP urges pet owners to make the most out of their pets’ checkups and make pet inquiries a habit during every visit.

How’s my pet doing?

Vets will brief pet owners on their pet’s present condition after each physical exam. However, some abnormalities in your pet’s routine or habits may not be detected by the vet. As a responsible pet owner, point out any physical abnormalities pets have such as bad breath, cough, skin rashes, and the like. This question can open a lot of issues that would need concern such as conditions and illnesses that may occur and can be prevented in a timely manner.

Are there any vaccinations or supplements that my pet may need?

Vets can recommend a number of medical necessities for pets depending on their age, size and health condition. Vaccination is important especially to pets that are only a few weeks old. Supplements may also be recommended to pets that have a particular health condition, or special needs for nutrition. Remember that the need for vaccinations and supplements will depend on your pet.

Is my pet getting the right amount of exercise?

Provide the doctor a list of regular pet activities and tell them truthfully how much activity your pet gets, including active play and exercise, so they can determine if the pet is getting the physical activity it needs. Vets can also recommend various types of exercise that are best suited to your pet.

There’s this one thing my pet does…

It can be helpful to bring up pet behavior as well. The most unusual pet behavior could be embarrassing to discuss but it is best to tell the vet any behavioral or health issues and keep them from escalating into serious troubles. Vets will surely appreciate the heads up as they can advise you with preventive solutions.

What is the best diet for my pet?

Nutrition is regarded as the foundation of good health. As a responsible pet owner, it is important to know the proper type of diet and pet food that your pet needs. Always consult your vet before altering

your pet’s diet, or trying any new food products. Vets can help identify products in the market that provide complete nutrition with high quality ingredients to nourish your furry friend. Remember, if changing a pet’s diet, it is generally best to do so gradually over several days, as sudden changes in diet can cause stomach upset.

The Pet Food Institute (PFI) and the Veterinary Practitioners Association of the Philippines (VPAP) believe that the good health of pets is rooted from a well-balanced diet, proper nutrition and responsible care. The PFI and VPAP encourages pet owners to select US pet food products that use the finest ingredients and provide proper labeling, upholding the highest standards of pet food which guarantee to meet pets’ dietary needs. PFI and VPAP advocate responsible pet ownership through regular medical supervision, good nutrition and preventive care geared to growth and wellness of pets across the country and around the globe.