What information does my veterinarian need to know about my dog's lifestyle before providing preventative care recommendations?

It's often very helpful to know what type of lifestyle your dog does have. Are they mainly indoor? Do they go to parks, boarding, dog parks, and things like that. It's also helpful to know what kind of food they're eating and if they're on any medications.

Dr. Kalah St. Pierre
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital

What recommendations will my veterinarian make when it comes to my dog's preventative care plan?

It depends on the type of lifestyle that your dog has. We may make recommendations for vaccinations, certain types of flea and intestinal parasite control, depending on how active your dog is. Other recommendations may include teeth brushing, microchipping, spaying, and neutering.

What is the difference between insurance and a wellness plan?

Insurance companies are a third-party company that often reimburses you for the payments that you make at your vet and they often don't work directly with your veterinarian. Wellness plans are the payments that you make towards your veterinarian for the services that you receive.

How can I keep my dog safe while in a car?

Seatbelts are often very helpful, whether it's in the backseat or in the far back space of your car, or if your pet is small enough to ride in a carrier, that can be much safer for your pet.

Why should I keep my dog on a leash when in public?

Even if your dog is very well-behaved, you never know how the next dog is going to be that you may encounter.

What can I do to keep my house and yard pets safe?

Make sure you don't have any toxic plants in your yard or rocks and plants and things that they can chew on and swallow that could be dangerous.

What pesticides are harmful to my dog?

I would assume that all pesticides are harmful because there are so many out there and dogs won't be particular on which ones they'll eat or chew on.

What are the most common dog health conditions that can be prevented with a good wellness plan?

Weight control, flea and tick prevention, and dental care are three of the most common things we talk about in wellness visits.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram

Dog Preventive Care - FAQs 1

Dr. Kalah St. Pierre
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital

How does preventative care help a dog?

Preventative care includes the proper diet, vaccinations, grooming, and a good physical exam to ensure your dog is overall healthy.

How often should a dog be seen for preventative care?

A dog should be seen at least once a year by your veterinarian. However, if you have any additional concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to them between these visits.

What will a veterinarian do during a dog preventative care appointment?

Your veterinarian will conduct a physical exam and discuss the lifestyle of your pet to determine which vaccinations are recommended, the proper diet, dental care, and flea and heartworm control.

What preventative medication does a dog need to be on monthly?

Depending on the product, there are some flea and heartworm medications that are given monthly, while others are given less frequently. It essentially depends on which one is most suitable for your pet.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram

Dog Preventive Care - FAQs 2

Dr. Kalah St. Pierre
Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital

What illnesses can be avoided by good dog preventative care?

A good annual wellness exam could help keep your dog's teeth clean, can help with avoiding obesity, as well as parasite control such as heartworm disease.

Will dog preventative care keep my dog flea and tick-free?

Yes. If you are following the guidelines based on the product that you're using, those products will help keep fleas and ticks off of your pet.

How does preventative care help my dog in all stages of life?

Preventative care is available for puppies, adults, and senior pets. It just depends on which product is best for your pet.

Is preventative care less expensive than treatment?

Oftentimes, yes. Treatment for almost any disease is often more expensive than the preventative care that you pay for annually.

Can preventative care save my dog's life?

It can. There are certain diseases that your pet can get that can be avoided with good preventative care.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (407) 896-0941, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram