Experts are warning many of us are not taking our four-legged friends for regular check-ups
Dog owners may say their pet is a deeply loyal companion and may have no doubts they are keeping them in tip top shape. Dogs can face a host of health issues depending on their size, breed, and lifestyle.
However, despite our best efforts, experts are warning many of us are not taking our four-legged friends for regular check-ups. One in ten admit they only take their pet for a check-up when they’re unwell, with 13 percent having lost track of what vaccinations or treatments their pet has had, according to a study by MyPet.com.
The findings are backed up by industry figures, which show 58 percent of dogs and 72 percent of cats in the UK haven’t been protected with annual vaccinations in the last year and are missing regular veterinary health checks.
The eye-opening stats have moved TV vet Dr James Greenwood to urge pet owners to rethink their approach to showing how much they love their pets by prioritising preventative care.
“This research confirms what we as vets encounter every day with our patients – many pets suffer unnecessarily from illnesses that could be easily prevented with a simple annual vaccination,” he cautioned.
“Vaccinations and regular health assessments not only save lives but can also reduce stress and financial strain for pet owners.”
While most of us know the basics, there are some common signs that are easy to miss – but could be red flags when it comes to your pet's health.
Rebecca Keseru, Veterinary Advisor at MSD Animal Health, added: “Vaccinations help protect animals from life-threatening diseases like canine parvovirus and feline panleukopenia.
“They can also help owners avoid costly medical treatments in the future.
“Sometimes people assume pets only need vaccines when they are young, but vaccinations do not last a lifetime, so our pets need regular boosters throughout their lives to remain protected.”
Here are 10 things Dr James thinks you should look out for.
Bad breath
We often think bad breath is just part of pet aging, but bad breath is a key indicator of dental and gum disease – one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in pets.
Ongoing upset stomachs or loose stools
If your pet regularly has an upset stomach or loose stools, don’t chalk it up to a sensitive tummy. Frequent digestive issues could be an indication of underlying issues, such as parasites, food intolerance, or inflammatory conditions.
Itchy skin or sore patches
Now we're firmly in spring, skin flare-ups are more common and can often be allergy related. If left untreated, they can become quite dangerous for our pets, leading to painful hot spots or infections.
Behaviour changes
If you've noticed a change in your pet's behaviour, this can be a sign of something serious. For example, a dog becoming snappy or withdrawn might be in pain, often due to things like arthritis or an injury.
Always talk to your vet to rule out physical causes before assuming it’s just behavioural.
Skipping vaccinations
Last year, 58 per cent of dogs and 72 per cent of cats missed their yearly vaccinations. Annual vaccinations are really important as they can protect against and prevent serious, sometimes fatal diseases.
Increased drinking
Drinking more water isn’t always a good thing. If your pet suddenly starts drinking excessively, this could point to kidney disease, diabetes, or hormone imbalances.
Keep an eye on their water consumption and talk to your vet if this seems out of routine for them.
Grass seeds
Now we're heading into the warmer months, it's time to look out for grass seeds. These small seeds can burrow into skin, causing painful infections. Always check your pet’s coat and paws after a walk and remove any seeds.
Heat hazards beyond cars
We often talk about hot cars when it comes to pet safety in warm weather, but sheds, conservatories, and even pavements can be just as dangerous. Here's a tip — If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
Ear or eye discharge
Sometimes eyes and ears can just be ‘a bit gunky,' especially when we encounter spikes in pollen. However, persistent discharge could be a sign of infection or irritation and needs treatment to prevent further damage.
You just feel something's ‘off'
Trust your instincts. You know your pet better than anyone. If something feels different — talk to your vet and get it checked. Early detection saves lives.
