General Care for Dogs

Nutrition

A balanced diet is essential for a dog’s overall health. Make sure to feed high-quality food appropriate for your dog's age, size, and breed.
- Puppies need food designed for growth, while adult dogs require a well-balanced diet for maintenance.
- Ensure that your dogs diet contains grains to reduce the risks of heart issues.
- Senior dogs may require food with fewer calories and more joint support.
Exercise

Regular physical activity is essential to keep your dog fit and mentally stimulated. Different breeds have different activity levels, so tailor the exercise plan to your dog’s energy level.
- Daily walks, playtime, and interactive activities help maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity.
Regular Vet Checkups

Routine Exams

Dogs should have annual or bi-annual vet checkups to ensure they stay healthy. Regular exams allow early detection of health issues such as heart disease, kidney problems, and cancers.
Vaccinations

Vaccines protect dogs from dangerous diseases.

Core vaccines include: Rabies, Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis
- Additional vaccines that are recommended (Bordetella, Influenza, Lyme)
Parasite Prevention

Ensure your dog is protected from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites. Regular tests and treatments for external and internal parasites are crucial.

- You can request preventatives from us!

Grooming

 Regular grooming is essential for keeping your dog clean and healthy. Some dogs need frequent brushing, while others only need occasional grooming.
- Bathing should only be done when necessary to avoid skin dryness.
- Nail trimming is also important, as overgrown nails can cause pain or injury.
Ear Care

Some dogs are prone to ear infections, especially breeds with floppy ears. Clean their ears regularly and check for signs of infection like odor, redness, or discharge.
Dental Health

Brushing Teeth

 Regular dental care is important for dogs to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Use dog-safe toothpaste and brushes when brushing their teeth.
Dental Chews and Toys

 Provide dental chews and toys that can help keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy.

Common Dog Health Issues

1. Obesity

Obesity is a major health concern for dogs, leading to heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems.
Keep track of your dog’s weight and consult a vet if there are concerns about their size.
Provide controlled portions of food and engage in regular exercise.
2. Skin Problems

Dogs may develop allergies, flea infestations, or infections that affect their skin. Symptoms include itching, redness, hair loss, or sores.
Regularly check for signs of flea infestations, and consult a vet for chronic skin issues.
3. Joint Issues

Joint problems like arthritis are common, especially in older dogs or larger breeds.
Keep your dog active and at a healthy weight.
Speak to your vet about joint supplements, treatments, or pain management if necessary.
4. Allergies

Dogs can develop allergies to food, pollen, or environmental factors.
Symptoms of allergies include itching, ear infections, and digestive problems.
If you notice signs of allergies, a vet visit is important for diagnosis and treatment.
5. Heart Disease

Heart disease in dogs can be inherited or age-related. Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.
Regular vet checkups can help detect heart disease early.

Contact Us

If you need to schedule a consultation or have questions about your dog's health, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our expert veterinary team is here to support the well-being of your beloved pet.                      

Our staff will gladly speak to you about which vaccines and preventatives would be appropriate for your dog based on his/her lifestyle and exposure.