5 Reasons why preventive care will keep your pet happy

You know that special bond you share with your furry friend? It’s priceless, right? But with the busyness of everyday life and making sure their other needs, such as toys and treats, are cared for, sometimes it’s easy to forget about other things, like preventive care.

And you are not alone… A recent study showed that although over 90% period, only of dog and cat owners have visited the vet within a 5-year period, only about 40% of owners visit a vet every year.¹

As well as finding it tricky to slot in time to visit their vet, some owners also turn to the internet for advice when they are concerned about their pets. While being proactive about caring for your pet is a great thing, googling symptoms can lead to inaccurate conclusions and delays appropriate treatment, which can worsen your pet’s condition.

This is where regular vet check-ups come in: they are an essential pillar of preventive care, not just an optional add-on. These visits, along with vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, weight management, and more, are a vital investment that keeps your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come.

Even with the importance of regular check-ups, some owners might hesitate to schedule vet visits due to their pet’s discomfort, which can be a result of stress factors, such as fear of unfamiliar settings.  Fortunately, there are strategies to manage your pet’s stress during check-ups, such as crate training and positive reinforcements techniques. You can also feel reassured that there will be a lot of strokes and treats available from the pet loving veterinary practice team.

Reasons why preventive care is the best option for you and your pet

1. Early detection = longer lives

Just as with humans, spotting diseases or conditions in your pet sooner rather than later increases the chances of a successful treatment and recovery. This is where regular check-ups with your vet come in. These consultations provide fantastic opportunities for catching health issues early on and increase the likelihood of your pet getting the treatment they deserve.

2. Smarter spending

While preventive care requires an initial investment, it is far less expensive than dealing with advanced illnesses or emergencies down the line. Waiting until your pet is visibly unwell can lead to lengthy medical bills, expensive medications, and even surgeries, but investing in preventive care often results in less expensive treatments and lower healthcare costs over time. The majority of UK veterinary practices now offer health care plans where you can spread the cost of preventative health over the year. Ask your veterinary team about this in your next visit, if you aren’t already on a plan.

3. Trustworthy guidance from your vet

In today’s digital world, it’s tempting to turn to Google or online forums for pet health advice. However, your vet remains your most reliable source of information, providing you with not only an explanation of your pet’s condition but also with solutions that fit your needs.

Information found online can often be overwhelming, conflicting, and often incorrect,  but your vet offers personalised guidance based on your pet’s history, years of education, training, and hands-on experience. Many diseases and conditions are silent to the untrained eye, especially in the initial stages.

Did you know that in the UK 1 in 7 dogs and 1 in 4 cats have fleas? If you’re not already itching then you will be knowing that 1 in 10 fleas carry diseases that can be dangerous for pets and people.²

Your vet can help you with a personalised plan to minimise the risk that parasites and the pathogens they carry which can cause harm to you or your pet.  By consulting your vet for preventive care, you gain access to trustworthy advice tailored to your pet’s individual needs.

4. Comprehensive care tailored to your pet

Your vet isn’t just a medical professional—they’re your pet’s greatest ally in staying healthy and happy. From routine vaccinations and parasite treatments to personalised nutrition plans and behavioural support, your vet provides comprehensive care tailored specifically to your pet’s needs.

Preventive care visits also allow your vet to keep track of your pet’s health over time, spot any changes or raise concerns, and adjust their care plan as necessary, ensuring that your pet receives the best support possible throughout their life.

5. Strengthening the bond with your pet

Beyond the physical health benefits, investing in preventive care strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Regular visits to the vet build trust and familiarity, making any future appointments less stressful for both you and your furry friend. By prioritising preventive care, you demonstrate your dedication to your pet’s well-being, nurturing a deeper connection based on love, care, and mutual respect.

Preventive care isn’t just a luxury—it is essential for ensuring your pet’s health and happiness. By investing in regular check-ups with your vet, you give your furry companion the best chance at a long, healthy life. So, don’t wait for problems to arise; take proactive steps to protect your pet’s health through preventive care.

References:

1. Bir, Courtney, et al. “Familiarity and Use of Veterinary Services by US Resident Dog and Cat Owners.” Animals: An Open Access Journal from MDPI, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 13 Mar. 2020.
2. Abdullah, Swaid, et al., Pathogens in Fleas Collected from Cats and Dogs: Distribution and Prevalence in the UK – Parasites & Vectors, BioMed Central, BioMed Central, 6 Feb. 2019.