Routine Checkups
Routine veterinary exams play a vital role in keeping pets healthy throughout their lives. During annual visits, your veterinarian can update vaccinations, run screening tests such as heartworm and fecal checks, and monitor for early signs of illness. Detecting problems at the beginning, before they become advanced, often leads to easier and more successful treatment. For example, small-breed dogs in particular tend to accumulate plaque quickly, which can progress to gum disease and even cause heart problems if left unaddressed. Weight gain is another concern many owners miss, and untreated obesity can contribute to joint strain and other chronic health issues.
Vaccines
Puppies are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases, which is why vaccinations should begin at about eight weeks of age. They typically receive boosters for distemper, parvovirus, and other core illnesses every three to four weeks until they reach sixteen weeks, when they reach 3 months old, they’re ready for their rabies shot. If the mother dog was properly vaccinated, her puppies start life with short-term maternal antibodies that fade around the eight-week mark. Giving vaccines too early can reduce their effectiveness, so timing and yearly boosters are important. Some owners mistakenly assume adult dogs are immune, only to discover that preventable diseases can still occur. Your veterinarian can recommend the right schedule.
Foods to Avoid
Pet owners are often surprised by how many everyday foods and plants can be harmful to animals. Online resources can help, including a Dog Chocolate Toxicity Meter that estimates risk based on your dog's size and the amount of chocolate consumed. One lesser-known harmful food is xylitol, a sweetener used in many products, including certain peanut butters, that can be extremely toxic to dogs. Always check ingredient lists carefully. Store-bought treats, particularly jerky-style snacks, may be produced in countries with limited oversight and have a history of recalls. Even items labeled “Made in the USA” may contain imported ingredients, so choose pet treats from reputable, transparent manufacturers. If you think your pet may have ingested something dangerous, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline immediately.
Krystina Rivera, Associate Director of Medical Operations and Fido Program
555 Sandy Bank Road
tel: 610.566.1370 ext. 222
Providenceac.org