How Can We Help Vet Clinics
Since many countries have experienced Covid-19 we have had a rise in pet ownership. With limited resources in the veterinary industry and staffing shortages many pet owners have felt the affects. It can be hard to get appointments, emergency hours are limited and some even are unable to be taken on by a clinic. It is important even though we may be frustrated that we given veterinary staff patience. It is important we be kind as many in the Veterinary industry struggle with mental health due to the trials and tribulations of the job and affects of staffing shortages.
Here are some things we can do to help reduce some stressors and unnecessary appointments:
Make sure to train your dog for good obedience to prevent incidents of accidental injuries such as getting hit by vehicles.
Crate train your dog properly and keep high risk items away to avoid incidents of ingesting harmful or dangerous items.
Muzzle train your dog no matter what. Whether you do not fully trust your dog with strangers, other dogs or vet staff it is a necessary skill for a dog to have and feel comfortable with. This can keep everyone safe including your dog. You may have a dog with a very sweet disposition but with injury or age behaviours can change. It is best we prepare them for this.
Never allow your dog to be off leash if you do not have absolute 100% ability to recall your dog. If you are walking a dog with high risk behaviours or without recall please use a leash with a back tie for extra security.
Feed your dog a nutritious and balanced diet. High quality kibble, balanced raw and always adding fresh food toppers. Speak to a certified Canine Nutritionist or read “The Forever Dog” book by Rodney Habib and Karen Shaw Becker for more resources.
Avoid over vaccination and do titer testing instead.
Make sure your dog has an appropriate amount of exercise for their diet and vise versa. Obesity in dogs is a result of many other health issues from mobility issues, heart disease and cancers.
Second guess bringing your dog to doggy daycares and dog parks if you don’t 100% trust and know the people there to make good decisions and handle situations properly. In these environments viruses, diseases can be spread and dogs can attack and injure your dog.
As always it is our responsibility to keep our dogs safe and healthy especially from preventable incidents.
