12 Health Checks to Never Miss for Your Dog

Caring for a dog is like caring for a human. They need regular health checks, from simple physical exams to complex tests, to ensure their wellbeing.

Routine Physical Examinations

Regular physical exams are key in finding hidden health issues in your dog, including checks on body weight, skin condition, eyes, ears, nose, teeth, gums, lymph nodes, heart, joints, and muscles.

Dental Checks

Dental health in dogs is crucial. Regular checks prevent periodontal disease, leading to tooth loss and severe health problems. Vets might recommend cleaning, if needed.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are crucial in preventing life-threatening diseases in dogs like rabies, parvovirus & more. Vets develop a schedule based on the dog's age, lifestyle & risk factors.

Heartworm Tests

Heartworms are parasites living in dogs' hearts and lungs. They cause severe health problems, including heart failure and death. Annual tests are crucial for early detection.

Fecal Exams

Fecal exams detect parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms in your dog’s system. Untreated, these cause weight loss, diarrhea, and health issues.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are crucial in identifying hidden health problems such as diabetes, kidney, liver disease, and thyroid issues that may not be evident in a physical exam.

Urinalysis

A urinalysis is a test that checks your dog’s urinary tract and kidneys health. It identifies infections, crystals, or other irregularities in the urine.

Skin Checks

Healthy skin is vital for a dog's health. During routine checks, your vet will inspect your dog's skin for irritation, infection, or allergies.

Eye Exams

Regular eye exams help detect potential eye issues in dogs, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal disease. Early detection leads to preventing permanent vision damage.

Ear Checks

Dogs, particularly those with long, floppy ears or ear hair, are susceptible to ear infections. Regular checks prevent infection and identify any treatment needs.

Joint Assessment

As dogs age, they may get joint problems like arthritis. Routine assessments detect changes in your dog’s joints for early intervention and management.

Behavior Evaluation

Your dog's behavior indicates their overall health. Regular evaluations identify changes that may suggest underlying health problems, like pain or anxiety.

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