You and Your Veterinarian

Choose a veterinarian that you like and trust with your dog. Check with friends first if you are a new pet owner. If you go to an office that has several veterinarians, then try to make an appointment with the same doctor each visit so he becomes familiar with your dog. Make sure you come to the visits prepared and don't be reluctant to ask for information about your dog and potential problems you should look out for.

Prepare for the Veterinarian Visit

Remember to Bring:
Stool sample for examination of intestinal parasites.
Inoculation records.
Ask about flea and tick prevention and control programs.
Heart worm tests records and ask about types of preventives.

Ask about Parvo Virus and symptoms to look for, also ask about any illnesses common to your breed.
Ask about minor injuries and how to treat them.
Let your vet recommend a good antiseptic cream.

Home health checks are good, but they're not a replacement for regular vet visits (at least once a year). Also, keep vaccinations up-to-date.

Giving Medication

Use a syringe (without the needle) to give liquid medication. Be careful not to stab the back of the dog's throat. It is recommended to insert the syringe while the dogs mouth is closed directly behind his canine teeth. Inject the medication slowly.

For pills, position the dog upright sitting down, tilt the dog's head back, lift the lips away from his teeth and hold his upper jaw by the gums directly behind his canine teeth and push down on his lower jaw with your other hand to open the mouth. Place the pill in the very back of his throat, close his mouth and keep it shut.
Stroke his throat softly until pill is swallowed.
If you have a dog who is not use to taking medication and he is to difficult to handle, try crushing the pill or opening capsules and mixing with peanut butter or baby food. Mix it up and stick it on the roof of the dog's mouth. As the dog licks the peanut butter off the roof of his mouth, it will melt and he will swallow the medication with it.

A dog may show signs of distress in many different ways. You want to be familiar with the most common signs of distress because they indicate your dog could have a problem that may need immediate attention. This is a general list below that shows signs of distress and the possible problems they may indicate. These same signs could indicate problems other than those listed so be sure to consult your veterinarian.

Spaying and Neutering your Dog

If you do not plan on breeding your dog, consider the option of spaying or neutering. By neutering your female dog you are: