We tend to forget that our pets can contract diseases as well. Although we are aware of their eventual demise, we do not perceive them to be as fragile as they actually are. However, just like humans, they can experience health issues. However, as you will see below, there are ways to safeguard them.
Visit the Vet Regularly
It is recommended that a person visit the doctor twice a year for a checkup to ensure that everything is fine. Catching problems before they progress too far and become irreversible is the most important aspect of our health.
The same holds true for our pet’s trip to the veterinarian. Your pet should receive annual treatments, vaccinations, and a physical examination from the veterinarian. Since this is required, we may wonder whether pet insurance is worthwhile. It is certainly worth investigating. There are numerous plans available, and one of them may appear to be the ideal option for you and your pet.
Occasionally, it is beneficial to leave our furry companions overnight at the veterinarian. Thus, the physician can conduct a series of tests, ranging from bloodwork to fecal examination. This is the best way to determine whether the animal has a disease or has been infected by parasites.
Immediately, the veterinarian will be able to suggest a treatment and catch the disease before it is too late to treat it.
Prevention is Part of the Solution
Vaccines
Cats, dogs, and other house pets should undergo all available preventative measures. This begins with immunizations. There are numerous, and each will protect them from different diseases. Bordetella, distemper, heartworms, intestinal worms, leptospirosis, Lyme disease, parvovirus, and rabies are the most significant.
You must be aware that some vaccines are required by law to be administered to your pet, while others are optional. These vary by region, so consult your veterinarian when you next see him or her. To maximize your furry friend’s protection, however, you must adhere to the entire protocol, which includes booster shots for some vaccines.
Medication
When it comes to medication, it is always preferable to consult your veterinarian beforehand, just as it is preferable for us to discuss any medications we take with our doctor. However, it is comforting to know that some over-the-counter medications for cats and dogs are available.
Typically, they are used for protection against fleas and ticks, to keep parasites away from our loved ones. They are available in various forms, including topical, oral, and collar medications. Even heartworm prevention medication is available. Again, you should consult your pet’s veterinarian first.
Keep them Away from Wild Animals
Even though your pet is an animal, there are significant differences between him and wild animals. Those who inhabit the wild may be carriers of numerous diseases. This is because they are not vaccinated and do not visit a veterinarian annually.
The diseases carried by raccoons, opossums, and other wild animals could be transmitted to your pet through their scratches or bites. The best way to protect them is to teach them to stay close to the house or to enclose the yard with a fence, so that they don’t leave but also so that other animals can’t enter.
If you want to keep your pet for an extended period of time, treat him as you would a child. It is the best way to ensure that they maintain good health and live a full life.