At Home Check-Ups for Your Dog

There are several at home checks you can do for your dog and save the expense of a veterinarian. These tips work with every breed, regardless of body size. The main areas to check regularly are eyes, ears, paws, and teeth.

Eyes:

To check your dog's eyes simply look for redness or irritation. Sometimes you will find your dog has "eye boogers" or drainage that indicates an infection. You should check your dog's eyes regularly as some dogs have a darker color than others so it is important to be familiar with what they look like on a normal day. If you have a long haired dog trim or pull back the hair so it will not get into the eye. Longer coated dogs with lighter coats show more eye staining than short haired, dark coat dogs. To help prevent eye staining wipe your pet's eyes in the morning with a warm damp cloth. This will help keep the eyes clear of infection as well.

Another warning sign to look for is if your dog rubs his or her eyes excessively. They might rub their head on the floor, or rub with their paws. Either way, check it out. Try wiping the eye with a warm damp cloth several times a day prior to taking them into the vet. I have found that keeping my dog's eyes clean will prevent or clear up any minor irritations that may occur. If the symptoms continue then it is important to take your pet to a veterinarian.

Ears:

Dogs can get ear infections, especially dogs with long floppy ears. I have a Labrador retriever who frequently develops yeast infections in his ears. Regularly clean the easy to reach parts of the ear. Keep an eye out for redness, odor, and discharge. Dogs who spend a lot of time out of doors can also become infected with ear mites. If your dog is shaking his head and scratching at his ears check it out! My dog often swims in streams and lakes, and when we get home I use cotton balls to dry out his ears. This helps prevent most infections.

Paws:

It is important to check your dog's paws regularly. My dog has often had thorns or stickers in his paws that I would not have known about it I hadn't looked. Make sure you keep your dog's nails trimmed. Ask your veterinarian to explain the best ways to trim your dog's nails to ensure you do not trim them too short and cut the quick. If you do your dog's paw will bleed, sometimes a large amount, and there is a chance of the paw becoming infected. Styptic powder(found at most pet stores) can be used in these instances to help stop any bleeding that may occur. Always remember to use sharp trimmers, and go slow. Only cut a small amount at a time to help avoid the quick.

Teeth:

Dogs need to maintain good teeth and gums. Dogs who chew on sticks bones, or toys tend to keep their gums and teeth healthier as they are scraping plaque off their teeth as they chew. Dog toothpaste is available at most pet supply stores and if you brush your dogs teeth regularly they will not only have a healthier mouth, but also get used to being handled so when you do take them into the vet they are ok with handling.These are simple things that you can do at home to ensure the health of your pet while avoiding costly trips to a veterinarian.