Choosing the right veterinarian is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of your pet. One of the most important factors to consider is their credentials and qualifications. You want to ensure the veterinarian is licensed, registered and has the necessary training and experience to provide quality care for your pet. But as a first-time pet owner, what are the important questions you should ask your vet?

Asking your vet the right questions is an important part of ensuring the health and well-being of your pet. Some important questions to ask your vet include questions about vaccination, pet nutrition and exercise, as well as first aid solutions for emergencies.

What Questions Everyone Should Be Asking Their Veterinarian?

When visiting a veterinarian, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure that you have all the necessary information to make informed decisions about your pet’s health. Some key questions to ask your vet include:

Is My Pet’s Weight Normal?

According to a recent survey by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention, more than half of all dogs and cats in the United States are overweight. Worse, many pet owners with overweight dogs or cats deny their pet has a problem. Please inquire with your veterinarian about your pet’s weight about her, breed, size, and stature. Then, if there is a problem, you can collaborate on how to solve it. This is also true if you suspect your pet is underweight, though this is less common.

How Could I Provide a More Appropriate Meal?

Proper nutrition is the first step toward good health, and who better to ask what is best for your pet than your veterinarian? They can recommend diets appropriate for your pet’s life stage, lifestyle, and any other factors or underlying health conditions that apply after evaluating your pet.

Is My Dog’s Behavior Normal?

Please don’t assume that your pet’s wheezing after a workout is typical or that it’s normal for pets to itch whenever they go outside. An annual pet wellness exam is an excellent opportunity to ask your veterinarian about any changes you’ve noticed in your animal over the past year. Keep a running list of these occurrences so you can tell your doctor exactly what the problem was, when it first occurred, and how frequently it has occurred.

Is My Pet Up to Date on Vaccinations?

It never hurts to double-check that your pet has received all its vaccinations and immunizations—this is easily overlooked.

Which Flea and Tick Medications do you Recommend for My Pet?

Fleas and ticks aren’t just a bother; they can also transmit deadly diseases to you and your pet. Fortunately, there are numerous options for killing and preventing fleas and ticks. Inquire with your veterinarian about the differences between popular medications and which best suits your and your pet’s lifestyle. Some oral medications even provide flea and tick protection for up to 12 weeks with a single dose. Is my pet up to date on vaccinations?

It never hurts to double-check that your pet has received all its vaccinations and immunizations—this is easily overlooked.

Is a Rectal Exam Necessary for My Pet?

Every veterinarian is different, but if you don’t request one, they may not perform a full rectal exam on your pet. Rectal exams screen for prostate and rectal cancer, both of which are treatable if detected early.