PET HEALTH & WELLBEING

Pet Parenting Checklist and How an Annual Plan Can Help

March 22, 2023

Life can be busy with family, work, and friends. It is so nice to come home to our loyal pets after a long day, and with so much going on in our lives we want things to be simple and enjoyable. As pet owners, it’s important to follow a yearly checklist and schedule in any appointments to ensure that the health and wellbeing of our pets are taken care of. So, what does your pet need each year to keep them happy and healthy?

This checklist will give you everything you need to take the guesswork out of your pet's healthcare so you can spend more time enjoying life with your pet.

Schedule regular wellness and dental checks

What is the secret to a healthy life? Prevention and early detection of concerns.

As our pets age much faster than we do it is vital they have regular visits with their veterinarian. We generally recommend a wellness check every 6 months, once with your pet's vaccination and once as a dedicated wellness check. A wellness check can consist of a physical exam, a dental check, examination of a specific concern, and sometimes a routine or specific blood or urine test. You will also have the opportunity to discuss any concerns or general questions with your vet. Pet wellness plans can take the stress out knowing if you need to go to the vet with unlimited consults and a variety of benefits to use anywhere and anytime.

Daily dental care

Did you know that over 80% of dogs, over the age of three, and 60% of cats, over the age of four, have some form of dental disease? Implementing a dental care routine early will help maintain a healthy mouth and gums. Daily brushing with a dental kit and using dental chews can help prevent built-up of plaque and tartar. Regularly check pet's teeth at home and speak to your vet if there are any concerns.

Book in for a vaccination and physical exam

Vaccinations are important to prevent infectious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Your pet may need a series or annual ‘booster’ vaccination depending on their age and geographic location. Your Vet will be able to tell you which vaccinations are essential for your pet based on your area and what core vaccinations you should consider each year to protect your pet from deadly diseases.

Avoid a flea infestation

Fleas can be difficult to manage once you have an infestation in your home or yard. Did you know that only 5% of fleas are on your pet, with the remaining 95% of the flea population in your environment. There are many different products available and selecting one that suits your pet, and your lifestyle is key. Avoid a flea infestation in your home by keeping your pet up to date with their flea and parasite prevention treatment.

Keep safe from intestinal worms

Regular intestinal worming is vital for the health and safety of your pet, other animals and your family. There are different species of intestinal worms that can infect your pet, and some can be transmitted to humans. Keeping your pet up to date with a broad-spectrum intestinal worming treatment and having good hand hygiene will keep you, your family and your pets safe.

Provide daily mental and physical activities

Just like us, pets need both mental and physical activities to keep their mind and body happy and healthy. Regular exercise, in a form that in suitable for your pet, helps to maintain their healthy weight, provides mental and social stimulation and provides healthy circulation and digestive care. Some older pets may need additional joint support or low impact exercises. Speak to your veterinarian to discuss the best exercise options if your pet is suffering from arthritis or other condition.

Claim your free customised Vet Care Plan for your pet

A personalised vet care plan will provide you with individual guidance on everything you need for your pet. Each Vet Care Plan is created by our qualified veterinary staff, tailored to the pet's age, breed, and lifestyle. The annual Vet Care Plan provides customized wellness advice, including preventative care, life stage recommendations, and diet suitability.

It can be challenging to remember when your pet needs flea treatments, worming tablets or vaccinations. So, to help you stay on top of these things, we offer a range of pet care wellness plans designed by our experienced veterinary team tailored to your individual pet's age, breed and lifestyle. Our goal is to ensure that your pet is living its healthiest life and we strive to provide you with all your pet care needs online.