If you've recently adopted a dog and are trying to make sure that you do everything necessary to take good care of that pup, you'll need to reach out to a local veterinary clinic for a wellness check and vaccines. In addition, there are some things that you should understand about how to take proper care of your new dog. Here's a look at some facts you should keep in mind to help dispel some of the most common misconceptions.
Flea and Heartworm Prevention Should Be Year-Round
Many dog owners are lulled into a false sense of security by the colder temperatures of fall and winter and opt to skip flea and heartworm prevention during those months. While it's less likely for your pup to attract fleas or contract heartworm during these months, there's never a point at which there's absolutely no risk of flea or heartworm exposure. That's why most veterinary clinics will recommend that you maintain your dog's flea and heartworm prevention treatments all year long for adequate protection.
Grooming Is Important For Every Breed
Sometimes, dog owners assume that grooming isn't a big deal for short-haired dogs because they don't have as much of a risk of matting, tangling, and similar fur issues. However, grooming is important for all dogs because periodic baths help to protect the skin, keep the coat clean, and deal with any shedding. You should also brush your short-haired dog regularly to help clear away any irritants, pests, or other problematic elements that may be in their fur. Remember that dogs can pick up all sorts of things outside. In addition, those routine grooming appointments are beneficial for keeping your dog's ears clean and trimming the fur between the pad on their paws.
Ear Infections Are More Common In Certain Breeds And Can Be A Serious Concern
Dogs with floppy ears are typically more prone to ear infections because their ears don't get as much air circulation as they should, which can lead to yeast and bacteria growth. In addition, chronic ear infections, as well as itchiness and skin rashes, can also be indications of food allergies. If your dog is shaking their head a lot, scratching at one ear, or tilting their head, that's an indication of a possible ear infection that needs veterinary care.
Visit a veterinary clinic for more information about the best ways to take care of your dog and the treatments you should plan for.
Did you know that in order to become a veterinarian, a person needs to earn a four-year degree, and then spend an additional four years in veterinary school? By the time they are finished with all of this education, they are well prepared to offer your animals the best care. You can count on vets to treat your pets with kindness and compassion. They'll provide preventative care like vaccines, make recommendations for food and other products to keep your pet in good health, and offer treatment when your pet becomes ill. We are thankful for the work of vets, and we discuss that work in more depth throughout this blog.