8 Things Veterinarians Wish Dog Owners Would Stop Doing

In this article

Skipping Regular Check-Ups

Hey there, pet parents!

Have you booked your dog's next vet visit yet?

No?

Let me tell you why that might not be the best move.

Regular check-ups are your best defense against those sneaky health issues dogs are so good at hiding.

Yes, that furry friend of yours can be quite the poker face when it comes to pain and illness.

Early Detection Matters: Catching a potential health problem early can mean the difference between a simple treatment and a complicated (and often costly) one. Plus, dogs age faster than we do, so skipping even one yearly check-up is like you not seeing a doctor for several years.
Prevent, Don’t Treat: Prevention is key. Routine check-ups often include vaccinations, parasite control, and advice on nutrition and weight management. It's the complete package to help your pup stay as fit as a fiddle.
Tracking Progress: Got a young pup or a senior pooch? Each stage of your dog's life may come with its own challenges. Regular visits help your vet track your pal's development and nip any age-related issues in the bud.

Remember, being proactive about your dog's health shows that you really care.

Yes, life gets busy and it's easy to forget, but your dog's wagging tail and healthy bark are worth it.

So, let's make a pinky-promise to our four-legged friends: from now on, we'll keep those check-ups regular.

Deal? 🐾

Using the Internet for Diagnoses

Hey, ever found yourself turning to Dr.

Google when your furry friend acts a bit strange?

You’re not alone in this!

It’s super tempting to type symptoms into a search engine and follow wherever that rabbit hole leads.

But let me tell you, relying solely on the internet to diagnose your dog’s health can lead to some serious oopsies.

🐶 Why it's a "no-no":

Misdiagnosis: Sure, that limp might be a sprain, but what if it’s something more serious?
Inappropriate Treatments: The wrong remedy could actually harm, not help. Yikes!

👩‍⚕️ Here's the smarter approach:

Information Gathering: It’s fine to research but keep it as a conversation starter with your vet.
Expert Opinion: Your vet spent a ton of time in school to help your dog, let’s use that expertise!

Common pitfalls:

Trusting unverified websites - not all sites are created equal!
Confusing symptoms - similar signs can point to different issues.
Wasting precious time - while you’re down the rabbit hole, your dog’s condition might get worse.

Remember, your vet is just a call away when your pup’s under the weather.

Think of the internet as the appetizer and your vet as the main course – it’s all about getting to that delicious solution that keeps your pooch happy and tail-wagging.

Keep your searches factual, but always follow up with a pro.

Let's keep those doggos healthy and vets smiling, shall we? 🐾

Neglecting Dental Care

Hey there, ever thought about your furry friend's pearly whites?

Just like us, our dogs need routine dental care to keep their teeth in tip-top shape — it's not just about avoiding "dog breath." Did you know that dental problems can lead to more serious health issues, including heart disease?

Plaque and Tartar: These are your dog’s archenemies, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing can keep these villains at bay.
Pain Prevention: Nobody wants to see their pooch in pain. Regular cleanings help catch issues before they become painful.

You might be asking, "But how often should I be brushing those canine canines?" Great question!

Vets recommend brushing them daily, and don't forget about dental treats and toys designed to clean teeth.

Here's a little extra motivation: dogs can develop periodontal disease by just 3 years old if their teeth aren't properly cared for!

So, let's break it down.

During a dental cleaning, the vet doesn't just scrape off tartar; they also:

Examine teeth and gums for signs of disease
Look for loss of enamel and attachment
Check for oral masses
Take dental x-rays to catch hidden issues

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to incorporate dental care into your pup's daily routine.

Get into the groove of regular brushing, and you’ll be fighting off those dental dangers like a superhero – cape optional.

Remember, keeping your dog's teeth clean is a major key to their overall health.

Now who’s ready to tackle tooth care like a pro?

Ignoring Weight Management

Hey there, fellow dog lover!

Ever noticed your pooch packing on a few extra pounds?

Well, you're not alone.

In fact, a shocking 56% of our canine companions are tipping the scales as overweight or obese, according to a clinical survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.

That's around 50.2 million dogs with more to love – and also more to worry about.

Why should you care?

Well, a chubby pup might seem cute, but those extra pounds carry health risks like diabetes, arthritis, and even heart disease.

So, what's a devoted pet parent to do?

It's all about balance – and I'm not just talking about your dog balancing a treat on their nose!

First things first, let's talk diet.

Your furry friend needs high-quality, low-calorie chow that's right for their age, breed, and health needs.

Not all dog food is created equal, so do your fur baby a favor and pick a reputable brand.

It’s not a buffet; portion control is key as well.

Next up, exercise.

Think beyond the daily walks – although those are great!

Playtime, fetch, and even training sessions get your dog moving and grooving.

Remember, it's not just about less food and more movement; it's about the right food and the right kind of movement.

Every dog is different, and your vet can be your guide to what's best for your buddy.

So, before you give in to those puppy dog eyes begging for table scraps, think about this: are those momentary tail wags worth the long-term wag in their wellbeing?

Keep your pup healthy and active, and they'll thank you with more years of companionship and love.

Who’s a good owner?

You are!

Administering Human Medications

Hey there, fellow dog lover!

You know that urge to play vet when your fur baby seems a bit under the weather?

It's super common to think, "Maybe I'll just give them something from my own medicine cabinet to help." But hold up!

Human medications and pooches don't always mix well.

Did you know that some everyday meds that work wonders for us can be harmful to our canine companions?

For example, the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital warns against a simple "owner-prescribed" aspirin or ibuprofen.

Those painkillers we pop for a headache can lead to serious issues for Spot.

In fact, common Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like naproxen and ibuprofen, are a big no-no for dogs.

Here's the kicker: Even medications that can be safe for dogs, like certain NSAIDs, absolutely need a vet's supervision.

They'll take into account your doggo's size, breed, and health history to tailor the dose like a suit from a posh boutique.

Because let's be real, you wouldn't want to wear a one-size-fits-all jumpsuit to your best friend's wedding, right?

Likewise, the right dosage for your fluff ball is key to keeping them healthy and happy.

Antidepressants - Keep them away. These guys can cause some serious side-effects!
Over-the-counter meds - Tough love time: just because you can grab it off the shelf doesn't mean it's safe for your four-legged buddy.

Remember, always, always, always ring up your vet before turning your home into a makeshift doggy pharmacy.

It's a simple call that can prevent a world of trouble.

Your vet is the expert, so let them take the lead.

Plus, you'll avoid those heart-wrenching trips to the emergency room, and you'll both be happier for it!

Keep that tail wagging and the vet on speed dial!

Not Spaying or Neutering

Hey there, dog parents!

Let's chat about something you've probably heard a million times: spaying and neutering your furry friend.

You might be thinking, "But why fix what isn't broken?" Well, it's not just about preventing a surprise litter of puppies; it's about keeping your dog healthy!

Here's the scoop:

Health Perks: Spaying your female dog means a lower risk of breast cancer and eliminates the chance of uterine infections. Neutering male dogs can prevent certain prostate problems and testicular cancer. It's a win-win for longevity!
Population Control: Our shelters are overflowing, sadly. Spaying or neutering keeps the pet population in check. Fewer unwanted pups mean fewer dogs without homes.

You might have bumped into some rumors that make you wary of these procedures.

Understandable, but let's set the record straight with real facts:

Myth buster: No, your dog won't "miss" their reproductive abilities or become less "manly." They'll likely be healthier and just as playful!
Behavior Benefits: Neutering might also help reduce some behaviors you might not be fond of, like marking their territory indoors (we all know that's not fun to clean up) or being overly aggressive towards other dogs.

Remember, every dog is an individual, so it's best to yak about it with your vet.

They'll give you the nitty-gritty based on your pup's specific needs.

Deciding to spay or neuter doesn't just benefit you and your sofa from surprise tinkles - it's a solid choice for your dog's overall well-being! 🐶🩺

Ignoring Behavioral Issues

Hey there, dog parents!

Have you ever found yourself tuning out your furry friend’s endless barking, or chuckling when they pull on the leash like they're training for the Iditarod?

While these quirks can be endearing, ignoring your dog's behavioral issues might not be the best thing for your buddy.

When Spot acts out, it's not just to get under your skin.

Sometimes, behavior quirks can hint at health issues—like when continual paw licking might signal an allergy, or maybe destructive chewing points to anxiety.

Think of these behaviors as your dog’s way of saying, “Hey, I might need a check-up!”.

So, what should you do when your pup's antics go from cute to concerning?

Firstly, take out the guesswork:

Schedule a vet visit: Your vet can rule out if those odd habits are health-related.
Consult a behaviorist: If it's not medical, a certified behaviorist is like a doggy detective; they'll get to the bottom of that mysterious behavior.

Sure, Fido’s sudden fascination with your favorite shoes might just be a phase, or it could be a misplaced urge to chew that needs to be corrected.

Ignoring it won't make it vanish (unfortunately, not even if you perfect your invisible act).

Addressing it early can prevent a nip turning into a bite or an annoying habit into a costly sofa-shopping spree.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

By taking action early, you give your tail-wagger the best shot at a happy, well-adjusted life.

And let's face it, a calm pooch means a peaceful home—so it's a win-win!

Keep those tails wagging in the right way, okay?

Not Providing Proper Preventative Care

Hey there, have you ever skipped your furry friend's flea treatment thinking, "It's just this once, what could happen?" Turns out, quite a bit.

Prevention in pet care is like the superhero that quietly saves the day—you might not notice it, but it's essential!

Vaccinations: They're your pup's shield against some seriously nasty diseases. Much like your flu shot, they need these to keep the ouchies away.
Flea and Tick Prevention: Believe me, you don't want to deal with the headache of an infestation. Plus, these little critters can cause major health issues for your dog.
Heartworm Medication: This one's a biggie. Those pesky mosquitoes can transmit heartworms, and treating heartworm disease can be tough. Prevention is way easier than cure—heartworms are no joke!

Skipping out on these can lead to some somber vet visits that could've been avoided.

And, who wants to see their tail-wagger under the weather?

Here, let's break it down: