Bring Your Pet to the Vet Annually

How often do you go to the doctor? On average, North Americans visit their family doctor at least twice a year, and most of us ensure to book appointments for annual checkups. After all, you can never take your health too seriously. So what about our animal friends? Do you take your pet to the vet for regular checkups, or do you wait until there are signs of an illness before you take action? Unfortunately, many people don't consider the benefits of bringing their pet to the vet annually, and this can have serious consequences for your pet's health. Indeed, routine wellness checkups are the foundation of a long and healthy life for your pet. Here are 5 specific benefits that should get you thinking about your pet's next vet visit.

General Health

Pets that benefit from regular veterinarian check-ups tend to fare better when it comes to their overall health. Not only do regular vet visits allow your veterinarian to track chronic illnesses or other serious conditions, but they can also ensure that your pet is eating and exercising in a healthy way. Your vet will manage your pet's weight while looking for other signs of malnutrition or poor general health.

Early Detection

This is especially important for cat owners as cats are famously very good at hiding symptoms of illness. Nevertheless, whether we are talking about dogs, cats, hamsters, bunnies, or any other pet, one of the most important benefits of regular vet visits is early detection. Many illnesses respond much better to treatment when they are detected early; and in fact, some conditions if left untreated may be fatal or incredibly costly to treat at a later stage.

Vet Rapport

Just as humans need time to get to know their health care professionals, so do pets. Regular visits give you and your pet an opportunity to bond with your veterinarian. The best veterinary care begins with a trusting relationship, and the opportunity to build this relationship over time will also mean that your vet is better prepared to recognize odd behaviour or symptoms in your pet.

Education

An important part of your pet's health is actually home care, but it cannot replace veterinary care. Veterinarians and their assistants and technicians have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to treating a wide range of conditions. That being said, regular veterinary visits give you the opportunity to become educated about your pet and what you can do to ensure their long-term health. Your veterinarian can demonstrate treatment techniques or even routine care techniques such as how to care for your pet's teeth and gums.

Money

Many pet owners equate veterinary visits with cost, and it is true that you'll have to pay for your pet to see a veterinarian. However, many people don't consider the fact that routine wellness care can actually reduce your pet's health care costs over time. All the benefits already listed help to ensure that your pet is healthy today and in the future, so make sure that you consider the importance of preventive medicine in your overall pet care plan.

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