5 Reasons why Preventative Care is a Pet Owner’s Best Investment

You know that special bond you share with your furry friend? It’s priceless, right? 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 preventative care.

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

On top of not being able to prioritise preventive care, some owners also turn to the Internet for a quick diagnosis whenever they notice signs of distress in their pets. While being proactive about caring for your pet is a great thing, googling symptoms usually leads 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 preventative 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 reduce your pet’s stress during check-ups, such as crate training and positive reinforcements techniques. 

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

1. Early detection saves 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 comes 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. Budget-friendly care

While preventative care requires an initial investment, it’s 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. Investing in preventative care often results in less expensive treatments and lower healthcare costs over time.

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. Your vet offers personalised guidance based on years of education, training and hands-on experience. Many diseases and conditions are silent to the untrained eye, especially in the initial stages.

A UK study found that 28.1% of randomly selected cats and 14.4% of randomly selected dogs had fleas² while a study in the U.S. showed that over 80% of dog parks in metropolitan cities have at least one dog testing positive for internal parasites.³ 

Your vet can help you with a tailor-made plan to minimise the risk that parasites and the pathogens they can carry cause harm to your pet or yourself.  By consulting your vet for preventative 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 to personalised nutrition plans and behaviour support, your vet provides comprehensive care tailored specifically to your pet’s needs.

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

Preventative care isn’t just a luxury—it’s 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 preventative care.

Your vet is your pet’s best ally

By fostering open communication and trust, you can collaborate with your vet to address your pet’s unique needs and deliver personalised care.

Your vet  also serves as a valuable source of information and guidance, offering expert advice on various topics, including nutrition, behaviour and training.

By actively engaging with your vet and seeking guidance, you can gain valuable insights into your pet’s health and well-being and make informed decisions about their care.

Your vet plays a big role in your pet’s health. When in doubt of your pet’s condition, consult your trusted vet for the most accurate information and best solutions.  

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.
3. Stafford, Kristina, et al., Detection of Gastrointestinal Parasitism at Recreational Canine Sites in the USA: The DOGPARCS Study., National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 June 2020.