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Bi-Annual Exams Make A Difference
Dr. Cori Gross, a veterinarian in Seattle, Wash., says one of the most important things you can do for your pet is to make sure he gets routine veterinary examinations. “It’s all about taking preventative measures,” she explains. “You want to make sure you catch any potential problems early; that way it’s less expensive to care for your pets in the long run.”
In fact, The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) launched a national publicity campaign, “Twice A Year For Life” to encourage pet owners to take their pets to a veterinarian twice a year for wellness examinations to help their pets live longer and healthier lives.
Pets Age Quickly, So Does Their Health
For the most part, pet owners are following that trend. The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey reports that dogs and cats are taken to the veterinarian at least twice a year, with 63% of dog and 45% of cat visits accounting for routine physical examinations.
Gross says an additional benefit of bi-annual exams is staggering vaccination schedules so pets don’t have to receive an abundance of doses in one sitting.
For pet owners who think their pets are healthy and don’t need to make routine visits to the veterinarian, Gross reminds pet owners that animals age more rapidly than humans—an average of four to seven years faster. “Would you wait four to seven years to take your child to the pediatrician if he or she was sick?” she asks. “Probably not; only your veterinarian can determine if your pet is healthy.”
“Would you wait four to seven years to take your child to the pediatrician if he or she was sick?” she asks. “Probably not; only your veterinarian can determine if your pet is healthy.”
Eliminate Fleas And Ticks Easily
Keeping up with flea and tick control is instrumental in maintaining the health of our furry friends. Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance to pets: they are known to cause health problems ranging from skin infections and allergic reactions to hair loss.
 Besides keeping your pet comfortable and happy, Dr. Gross says it’s also humane: “Think about it—would you like bugs and parasites crawling all over your skin?”
There are a range of products on the market today to aid in the elimination of these pesky pests—everything from dips, powders and collars to topical solutions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best method and products for your pet.
Oral Disease Can Be A Killer
Many pet owners may not realize it, but dental care is also key in maintaining a pet’s overall health. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, it’s estimated that more than 80% of cats and dogs over the age of three show signs of oral disease.
Gross says bacteria in an animal’s mouth can get into a pet’s bloodstream and permeate different organs, causing infections that can potentially cause death. The AVMA reports the organs most often affected by oral diseases are the lungs, heart, kidneys, liver, and even the nervous system.
Research indicates that proper dental health can extend the life of your pet by two to five years. And who doesn’t want Fido around for as long as possible? Just like general health issues, becoming aware of any problems before they become serious illnesses is as important to your pet's health as it is to your own.
Reimbursements For Routine Care
And while trips to the veterinary can become costly, the good news is that there are resources available to consumers, such as Veterinary Pet Insurance’s (VPI) optional Pet WellCare Protection coverage that reimburses policyholders for important pet wellness services without a deductible. In fact, more than 80% of VPI policyholders have enrolled their pets in this program. Want to learn more about the benefits of routine care coverage? Click here.
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