Choosing a veterinarian can be difficult, but it is an essential step in providing adequate care for any companion animal. There are some basic health issues that can be handled at home, but most require professional help. Below is a brief list of some of the most common reasons owners take their pets to a Pet Care Clinic in Alexandria to make it a little bit easier to decide whether or not to seek professional help.
Routine Care
Like their owners, pets require routine medical care. Any companion animal, no matter its age, fitness level, and overall health, should be taken in for a check-up at least once a year. This helps ensure early diagnosis of any potential problems and allows pet owners the chance to direct any questions they may have to a certified veterinarian.
Skin Allergies
One of the most common issues treated by local vets is skin allergies. These typically manifest as hot spots, skin redness, or excessive scratching. Any pet owner noticing his or her animal scratching more often than usual, even after routine flea and tick treatments have been administered, should consider getting a professional opinion.
Stomach Upsets and Diarrhea
Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can be signs of serious health problems in both cats and dogs. It’s important to rule out ingestion of poison and other foreign substances early, so don’t hesitate to take in an animal that is experiencing a severely upset stomach for a check-up.
Dental Problems
Most pet owners know that they need to schedule appointments with their own dentists twice a year to check for signs of decay and get a professional cleaning. Not all of them realize that they should be doing the same for their pets.
Age-Related Concerns
Like the humans that care for them, cats and dogs often begin to suffer from age-related diseases and disorders as they grow older. A veterinarian can offer advice about treatment options and prescription medications that can help.
Serious Injuries
Animals are unable to express in words how much pain they are in, so keep an eye out for signs of serious injury such as limping, lethargy, and unusual behavior. Pets that show signs of injury should be taken to a Pet Care Clinic in Alexandria for professional care. Browse our website for more information about services provided, or call to schedule an appointment today.
