Routine Health & Dental Care

Annual exams are more than just shots

A yearly appointment gives a veterinarian the chance to look at the whole picture — weight, heart and lung sounds, teeth, skin, and mobility — instead of only the immunizations your pet is due for. Routine bloodwork and a physical exam often pick up changes long before a pet seems unwell to you at home.

Bring a list of questions and any notes on appetite, elimination, or behaviour changes. It is the simplest way to get more out of the visit.

Brush like a dog dentist

Most pets develop dental disease without any obvious sign of pain, yet tartar, gingivitis, and infected teeth affect more than comfort — they can impact overall health. Brushing at home is the single most effective thing you can do, and it works far better when it starts as a routine early in life.

• Introduce the brush and paste gradually, rewarding each step.
• Focus on the outside of the teeth, where plaque builds first.
• Keep sessions short and calm; frequency matters more than length.
• Ask about dental care products accepted by the VOHC when you next visit your veterinarian.

The basics: eyes, nose, and toenails

Small daily habits make up the bulk of home care. Checking the eyes for redness or discharge, noting changes in nose moisture or sneezing, and trimming toenails before they curl toward the floor all help you catch small problems early.

Persistent squinting, discharge from one eye, a nose that stays dry and crusty, or nails that split and bleed are all worth having assessed rather than waiting.