When you are scheduled to bring your pet in for a veterinary appointment it is a good idea to prepare any questions that you might have. Our Bakersfield vets share some of the most common questions that you should ask your veterinarian.
Common Questions To Ask Your Veterinarian
When you have a veterinary appointment at Stine Veterinary Hospital there will be lots of information to go over and sometimes while doing so you may forget some of the questions and topics that you planned on discussing. It is always a good idea to have any veterinary questions prepared that you were planning on asking so that you have the opportunity to get all the information you need from your Bakersfield vet in order to care for your cat or dog to keep them happy and healthy.
Below the vets at our Bakersfield animal hospital explain some questions you should have ready to ask your vet and discuss why they are important.
Is my pet missing any vaccinations?
Vaccines are one of the most important parts of your cat or dog's preventative care and long-term health. It is important for these vaccinations to be kept up to date in order to help protect your beloved pet from a wide range of serious and often life-threatening illnesses and diseases. The veterinary team at our Bakersfield veterinary hospital will always do their best to inform you when your pet is due for their booster shots however, it is always a good idea to discuss vaccines and ensure that your pet is well protected.
Should I be concerned with my pet's behavior?
While most of the time there shouldn't be any concerns regarding your pet's behavior, occasionally pets may do odd things that are concerning to their owners such as biting, wheezing, or itching. It is always a good idea to record and note these behaviors so you can ask your Bakersfield vet about why these behaviors may be happening and if there is a possible underlying condition. Be sure to take note of when these behaviors were witnessed and what your pet was doing at the time.
Do I need to worry about the weight of my pet?
Depending on the type of animal you have and the breed it may be difficult to figure out if your pet is overweight or underweight. The species and breed of your pet will determine what the ideal size and weight are for that particular animal. Even a few extra pounds over or underweight can put your pet at risk for various health conditions (some are life-threatening), making this a very important question. If your cat or dog isn't at a healthy weight your Bakersfield vet will help you establish a diet and exercise plan to help your pet get back to a healthy weight.
What products do you recommend for flea and tick prevention?
External parasites such as ticks and fleas can cause major concerns for pet owners. These pests will not only potentially infest your pet and your home but can also bring serious diseases that they are able to transmit to both people and pets. With so many different products available it can be hard to know which one would be best for you and your pet. Luckily, your veterinarian at Stine Veterinary Hospital will be able to recommend or prescribe a prevention product that will work best for your furry companion.
What exactly are all the costs associated with my bill?
You can ask this question when your Bakersfield vet provides your bill during your visit. Your veterinarian will be able to discuss each of the costs with you and explain what each fee represents, to give you a better understanding of the services provided. Having this thorough explanation will also help you know what to expect at each visit going forward.