FAQs
How often should my pet have an exam and blood work?
At Smith County Animal Clinic, we believe that the best way to prolong the relationship you share with your pet is to identify disease processes early and prevent the progression of chronic illness, before it becomes a problem. To keep tabs on your pet’s overall health, it is important to maintain annual exams and blood work. We recommend an examination by your veterinarian every 12 months for healthy pets under the age of 7, and every 6 months for healthy senior patients. Those pets with chronic disease or mobility issues may require examination on a more frequent basis. We also recommend annual blood work profiles to provide a continuous record for our veterinarians to identify trends and specific areas to focus on in an effort to prolong the duration and quality of life of our patients.
At what age should I have my pet spayed or neutered?
There are several factors that help determine the best age for spaying and neutering including your pet’s breed (larger breeds wait longer) and individual health status. Typical spaying and neutering for most pets not used for breeding purposes is usually recommended between 4 and 6 months of age.
How important is nutrition for my pet?
Similar to human food intake, a diet that is low in fat and high in protein is essential to the life of your pet. Pets, like people, are unique and individual; they have different needs based on their size, breed, age, and health issues. But no matter what their individual needs are, it is important that pets maintain a healthy weight, eat a nutritious diet, and receive adequate exercise to promote living longer with fewer health issues.
When pets are overweight, it creates a tendency towards diabetes, heart disease, joint problems, and other chronic health conditions. Using our nutritional counseling services at Smith County Animal Clinic will help simplify just what your pet should be eating and how much.