Preventative Wellness: What is your dog's program?

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Working dogs play an important role in our society, whether they are used in law enforcement, search and rescue, or as service animals. These dogs are trained to work long hours, often in challenging environments, and their health is essential to their ability to perform their duties. As such, preventative medicine is critical in ensuring that working dogs remain healthy and able to carry out their tasks.

One crucial aspect of preventative medicine for working dogs is regular blood work. Annual blood work is recommended, but if the dog is exposed to drugs and chemicals, more frequent blood work (every six months) may be necessary. Blood work can help detect early signs of disease or injury, allowing for prompt treatment before the condition worsens.

Another essential aspect of preventative medicine is regular radiographs. Annual radiographs can help identify any underlying issues, like arthritis or hip dysplasia, which can hinder a working dog's ability to perform its duties. Early detection of such conditions can prevent further damage and improve the dog's overall health.

Dental health is also essential in working dogs. Regular dental prophylaxis can prevent dental disease and infection, which can lead to more severe health issues. Dental problems can also affect a dog's ability to eat, causing weight loss and other related health concerns.

Flea and tick medications, as well as heartworm preventative, are critical in keeping working dogs healthy. Fleas and ticks can transmit diseases, and heartworm can be fatal if left untreated. These preventative measures can help protect working dogs from these risks and ensure they remain healthy. Remember, you will need to have a special blood test to ensure the dog DOES NOT have a current heartworm infection PRIOR to going on heartworm preventative. The treatment for heartworm is different from the preventative. If you want to know which parasites are prevalent in your area the CAPC website is a tremendous free resource.

Fecal exams every six months can also help detect parasites that can be harmful to working dogs. Deworming as needed is crucial in preventing these parasites from causing further health problems.

Supplements can also be beneficial in promoting joint health, particularly in older working dogs. Chronic or seasonal medications may also be necessary for dogs with ongoing health conditions. Preventative medicine check ups and regular veterinary are are essential in catching these things early. When we catch these processes early, there are more treatment options that ensure the dog can continue to work.

Preventative medicine is crucial in ensuring the health and wellbeing of working dogs. Regular blood work, radiographs, dental prophylaxis, flea/tick medications, heartworm preventative, fecal exams, deworming, supplements, and chronic medications can all play a role in keeping working dogs healthy and able to carry out their duties. Veterinarians can work with dog owners to develop a preventative healthcare plan tailored to the specific needs of each working dog, ensuring that they receive the care they need to stay healthy and perform at their best. If your veterinarian has a wellness plan - look into it! Many times there are discounts built into the plan as well as payment options to allow you to provide the best care possible for your dog while staying within budget. One of our favorite wellness plans is VCA's Care Club!