VET FOR GOOD HEALTH
Even the healthiest pup needs the right care – and it goes beyond having someone you can call in an emergency…
They say it takes a village to raise a child – and the same could be said for your fur baby. One of the most important figures in your dog’s life will be your local vet.
From day one, this is the person who not only guides pup through vaccinations, desexing, routine healthcare and medical emergencies, but they also offer you advice about your four-legged friend on everything from puppy training to parasite protection.
As Dr Maureen Forsyth – one of the veterinarians at the company that makes NEXGARD SPECTRA – explains, your vet clinic is the ultimate source of information. “You want to have a relationship where you feel you can give them a call and have a chat,” she says.
With help from the experts at NEXGARD SPECTRA, we answer some common questions about canine health care...
How do I find a good vet?
Asking fellow dog owners for recommendations is a good start, as is checking websites and giving clinics a call to be clear what services they offer. Ensure they’re in a convenient location, and establish their opening times and out-of-hours options in emergencies. Get to know the whole team at the centre, so if your usual vet is unavailable, you’re comfortable with someone else.
What procedures do I need when I first get my dog?
It is essential their vaccinations are up-to-date – these generally start at around six to eight weeks of age, with boosters required for ongoing protection. Puppies go through puberty from around six months; desexing prevents unwanted pregnancies and can reduce chances of cancer. Your annual dog licence is also cheaper! “When you adopt a dog, make sure you get their up-to-date medical records,” advises Dr Forsyth. “This should include flea and worm treatments, as well as vaccines.”
Do I go to my vet for parasite protection?
Your vet can advise on what parasites your dog is at risk of in your local area, but the key is regular preventative treatment. Consistent monthly dosing with NEXGARD SPECTRA ensures you’re proactive in managing the risk. Don’t wait until your dog is scratching at fleas before acting – by then, it’s too late and you have an infestation to deal with. It’s not just adult fleas that are the problem – that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Ninety-five percent of fleas exist as eggs, larvae and pupae in the environment so you have to stay on top of things.
Should I get pet insurance?
This has become more common practice in recent years in New Zealand. It’s worth considering as your dog’s medical bills can add up, especially if your dog develops an ongoing medical problem. “You hope you never need it, but if you do, it makes a difference to have that option,” says Dr Forsyth.