The Consequences of Neglecting Pet Preventive Health Care

Two factors may result in pet owners overlooking routine vet visits. One can be a budget problem. The other one may be over-confidence–pet owners may assume that their pets are always in a safe environment, especially those that don’t often go out.

Either way, pet owners put the animals at risk if routine vaccinations and parasite prevention treatments are missed. Many health threats are lurking around, even if pet owners are overly protective of their furbabies.

The Consequences

If pets miss their routine checkups, they are bound to miss out on the necessary protection. Vaccinations and parasite prevention extend lives and give pets a better chance at a good quality of life. This is a life without disease or even the threat of disease.

Parasites

Many kinds of parasites can terrorize pets. There are fleas, ticks, and a scary number of intestinal worms. Parasites that cling to the skin can cause blood and ear infections and can cause so much irritation. When pets start scratching, this could be the start of open wounds, hematomas, etc.

Parasites that invade the insides of the pets’ bodies can be easily eradicated with medication. However, there will be times when parasites, such as hookworms and roundworms, may have caused too much damage already, which can even be fatal. There will also be cases when vet surgery may even be the only solution.

Fatal Diseases

Neglecting vaccines, on the other hand, makes pets susceptible to viruses like rabies, distemper, etc. It doesn’t matter if pets stay indoors or venture outdoors. These microscopic villains will find their way to cats and dogs who are not protected. This is why pets must be vaccinated at an early age so that they have antibodies that can fight them off. Even if they survive the infection, their quality of life may be affected.

Also, there is a legal issue. Pet owners must follow vaccination guidelines to avoid fines or getting arrested for a misdemeanor. Why not follow links like https://www.paddockparkvet.com/site/veterinary-services-ocala/cat-dog-vaccinations-parasite-prevention to learn more? 

Helpful Tips

Fur parents are accountable for the well-being of their pets. It is not enough that pets are given food and shelter. If you have problems keeping up with your pet’s health routine, here are some suggestions you may consider. 

Wellness Plans

Veterinary hospitals like Paddock Park vet offer these wellness plans that focus on preventive care. You can incorporate the monthly installments into your monthly budget. These cover the services pets get during their annual or biannual checkups–a thorough physical exam, laboratory tests, and vaccinations. Also included in most of the plans is a year’s worth of parasite-prevention medication.

Proper Hygiene

To further support pets’ fight against these microscopic troublemakers, practice good hygiene. Whenever pets are exposed to the outdoors or other animals, a nice bath or a good wiping off paws and mouths (and tiny butts, too!) is always a good idea.

Also, keep kennels and cages always clean. Wash beds and blankets regularly. Use cleaning agents that can kill bacteria and viruses. This way, both pets and pet owners are protected.

The Takeaway

A pet’s health should never be sacrificed because there are ways to make life easier for the pet owner. Also, never assume that a pet is always safe indoors or in places where it frequents. Talk to a veterinarian so you can have proper advice and guidance in raising healthy and happy pets.