As a pet owner, it’s important to keep your furry friends healthy and happy. One way to do this is by taking your dog for regular check-ups at the veterinarian. During these visits, your vet will perform a thorough physical examination to check for any potential health issues.
While some problems may be obvious, there are often a few surprising findings that your vet may discover during a dog’s check-up. Here are five surprising things that your vet may find during a routine exam:
Dental problems: Many people are surprised to learn that dental issues are actually quite common in dogs. In fact, over 80% of dogs over the age of three have some form of dental disease. This can include things like gum disease, tooth decay, and even missing teeth. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease and kidney disease. It’s important to have your dog’s teeth checked regularly to ensure that they are healthy and to catch any problems early on. This can involve a professional cleaning, as well as at-home care such as brushing and brushing.
Skin conditions: Skin problems are also quite common in dogs. These can range from mild issues like dandruff to more serious conditions like allergies or infections. Skin problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including parasites, allergies, or even underlying medical conditions. Your vet will be able to identify any skin problems and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include medicated shampoos, antibiotics, or other medications.
Ear infections: Ear infections are another common problem in dogs. They can be caused by a variety of things, including allergies, bacteria, or even foreign objects stuck in the ear. Symptoms of an ear infection may include head shaking, scratching at the ears, and a discharge from the ear. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to more serious problems, such as hearing loss or even damage to the ear drum. It’s important to have them checked out by a vet as soon as possible to determine the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or ear drops.
Internal parasites: Internal parasites, such as worms, are a common issue in dogs. These parasites can cause a variety of problems, including weight loss, diarrhea, and vomiting. They can also be transmitted to humans, so it’s important to get them treated as soon as possible. If your vet suspects that your dog has worms, they will recommend treatment to get rid of them. This may include medication to kill the worms, as well as a follow-up exam to ensure that the treatment was successful.
Lumps and bumps: Lumps and bumps on your dog’s skin can be caused by a variety of things, including infections, cysts, and even cancer. It’s important to have any lumps or bumps checked out by a vet as soon as possible to determine the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Depending on the size and location of the lump, your vet may recommend a biopsy or other diagnostic tests to determine the cause. If the lump is cancerous, your vet will discuss treatment options with you, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, or other forms of treatment.
While these are just a few examples, there are many other things that your vet may discover during a routine check-up. It’s important to stay on top of your dog’s health by scheduling regular exams and following your vet’s recommendations. This can help catch any potential issues early on and ensure that your dog stays happy and healthy for years to come. Regular check-ups are an important part of preventative care, and your pets well being.
