When you become a dog owner, it’s essential that the pet receives the proper veterinary treatment all through life. Puppies should start receiving veterinary care as soon as they are a few weeks old, and this care should last through the adult and senior years of the dog’s life. Below, you’ll learn about various procedures that are performed by a vet who provides care for Dog Health in Ft. Belvoir VA.
Physical Exams
A puppy should get the first wellness exam performed by a veterinarian at about six weeks of age. The veterinarian examines the puppy from head to tail and looks for any signs of health issues. When pet owners get a new puppy, it’s important to have the puppy examined by a veterinarian before taking the puppy home. If the puppy has any health issues, the vet should begin treatment right away. Adult dogs should see the vet once every year for a complete physical examination. If the pet has any medical conditions, the vet may want to see the animal more frequently.
Vaccinations
During the first wellness exam, the veterinarian will give the puppy the necessary vaccinations to keep the animal free from certain diseases. The vet will schedule additional appointments so the puppy can get follow-up vaccinations. Adult dogs must get booster shots for certain diseases once a year. These vaccinations are normally administered by the veterinarian when the dog has an annual physical exam.
Dental Care
Dogs can have problems with their teeth, and common issues include plaque buildup on the teeth and gum disease. If the gum disease isn’t treated, it can result in periodontal disease, and this causes the teeth to become loose. While performing dental services, a veterinarian who specializes in Dog Health in Ft. Belvoir VA, will remove the plaque and examine the dog’s teeth. During the exam, the veterinarian will look for any teeth that are chipped, broken, or loose.
Fort Hunt Animal Hospital offers various veterinary services for dogs including physical exams, vaccinations, surgical procedures, and laser therapy. Visit the website to find out more about this vet clinic and to schedule an appointment for your pet. You can also visit them on Facebook for more information.
