What Should I Ask My Vet? The Most Important Things to Ask Your Vet

When visiting a veterinarian in the UK, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure your dog receives the best possible care. Here's a guide on the most important questions to ask, tailored for a UK audience.

1. Vaccination Schedule

• Question: "What vaccinations does my dog need and when should they be administered?"

• Importance: Ensuring your dog is up-to-date with vaccinations is crucial for their health. Some vaccines are crucial in the UK, while others are recommended based on lifestyle. The core group of vaccinations are:

  1. Canine Parvovirus: A highly contagious and potentially fatal disease, especially dangerous for puppies.

  2. Canine Distemper: A serious viral illness with no known cure, affecting the respiratory and nervous systems.

  3. Infectious Canine Hepatitis: Caused by the canine adenovirus, this disease affects the liver, kidneys, spleen, and lungs.

  4. Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can lead to severe liver and kidney damage and is zoonotic (can be transmitted to humans).

  Some regions or kennels may also require vaccination against other diseases, such as Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica). Additionally, if you plan to travel abroad with your dog, they will need a rabies vaccination as part of the Pet Travel Scheme.

2. Parasite Prevention

• Question: "What is the best flea, tick, and worm prevention for my dog?"

• Importance: Parasites not only affect your dog's health but can also impact human health. Tailored advice for your dog’s specific needs and environment is vital. You can look at products such as:

  • 1. Spot-On Treatments

    • Examples: Frontline Plus, Advantix, Advantage

    • Effectiveness: Effective against fleas, ticks, and sometimes mosquitoes.

    • Usage: Applied monthly directly on the skin.

  • 2. Oral Tablets

    • Examples: Bravecto, NexGard, Comfortis

    • Effectiveness: Typically effective against fleas and ticks; some products also protect against certain types of worms.

    • Usage: Administered monthly or every three months, depending on the product.

3. Nutrition and Diet

• Question: "What type of diet is best for my dog’s age, breed, and health condition?"

• Importance: Proper nutrition is fundamental for your dog's health. Dietary needs can vary greatly depending on various factors including life stage and health status. Take a look at our Calorie Calculator for Dogs in order to get a good indication of how much you should be feeding your dog.

4. Weight Management

• Question: "Is my dog at a healthy weight, and what should I do if they are not?"

• Importance: Obesity is a common issue in dogs in the UK, leading to various health problems. Your vet can provide guidance on maintaining a healthy weight. We’ve got a dog measurement checker to see if your dog is within average range to give you an indication of what their weight should be.

5. Behavioural Concerns

• Question: "Are there any behavioural issues I should be aware of for my dog’s breed, and how can I address them?"

• Importance: Understanding and managing behavioural issues early can prevent them from becoming more serious.

6. Dental Health

• Question: "How should I care for my dog’s teeth, and how often should they have a dental check-up?"

• Importance: Dental health is often overlooked but is integral to overall health. Regular dental care can prevent many problems. See our guide on dog dental care for all the best tips and tricks.

“A well-informed question can be the key to unlocking the best health and happiness for your canine companion.”

7. Routine Health Checks

• Question: "How often should my dog have a health check-up?"

• Importance: Regular check-ups can detect problems early when they are more treatable.

8. Microchipping and Identification

• Question: "Is my dog’s microchip information up to date, and what are the legal requirements in the UK?"

• Importance: Keeping microchip details current is a legal requirement in the UK and is crucial for reuniting lost pets with their owners.

9. Insurance and Cost of Care

• Question: "What are the typical healthcare costs for my dog’s breed, and would you recommend pet insurance?"

• Importance: Understanding the potential costs can help you budget and decide whether pet insurance is a good option.

10. Emergency Care

• Question: "What should I do in case of an emergency, and could you recommend an emergency vet?"

• Importance: Knowing what to do in an emergency can save precious time and potentially your dog’s life.

Conclusion

Asking these questions during your visit to the vet can help you better understand and care for your dog. Remember, each dog is unique, and your vet’s advice will be tailored to your dog's specific needs and circumstances. Regular communication with your vet is key to ensuring your furry friend leads a healthy and happy life.