Neponset Pet Center

Neponset Animal Hospital

It has also been
suggested that accidental tail trauma to the adult dog causes more suffering
than amputation early in life. Although it is not currently accepted that
puppies experience less pain than adult dogs, especially as analgesia is rarely
provided for them, they can be docked quickly under controlled circumstances
while fully restrained; this could minimize the chance for protracted suffering.
However, it has not been demonstrated that breeds whose tails are traditionally
docked have a significant risk of tail trauma that would justify the docking of
their tails.

Wellness Examinations and Immunizations
The gradual
onset of health problems in an apparently healthy pet often go unnoticed. Once
symptoms appear, the condition may be too difficult or costly to diagnose and
treat. Age is not a disease; however, there are many conditions, that if
diagnosed early, can be completely reversed or controlled for extended periods
of time. At least once and perhaps twice a year, your pet needs a complete
physical examination. Remember, your pet's lifespan is shorter than ours. A lot
can happen in 12 months.

Neponset Animal
Hospital

Veterinarians and veterinary associations must decide for
themselves whether to cooperate with animal control and animal welfare
organizations to provide special plans and/or services, such as health
examinations, surgery, immunizations, and/or advice on matters such as
sanitation and disease and parasite control. The scope of professional services
and detailed contractual arrangements to provide these services must be worked
out in advance to the mutual satisfaction of the animal control or animal
welfare organization and the veterinarian or veterinary association concerned.
Such plans and professional services, when agreed upon, must give the
veterinarian responsibility for making medical recommendations in accord with
patient needs. In addition, contractual agreements should be consistently
adhered to and reviewed on a regular basis.

Neutering – The Negative
Side
Neutering will result in the sterilization of your dog. He will no
longer be able to reproduce, so if you intend to breed your animal, do not have
him neutered. Neutering changes his appearance. Your dog will look different
because his testicles will no longer be present. If the absence of these organs
is a cosmetic problem for you, discuss testicular implants with your
veterinarian. Neutering may cause weight gain. Some pets gain weight after
neutering. Cutting back on his food or increasing his activity can help reduce
the weight gain.

Neponset Pet
Center Annual physical exams are an important part of providing optimal
health care and the best longevity for your beloved companion.

It’s that
time of year again. Time to take your dog to the veterinarian for his annual
examination. But maybe you’re thinking that you might skip it this year. After
all, he isn’t sick. Maybe you will just put it off until next year – what could
it hurt?

THE ISSUE
Some dog breed standards and traditions specify
or allow the amputation of part of a dog's tail. Cosmetic surgery is generally
not allowed to be performed on show dogs, but tail docking is an exception for
breeds for which this is customary. In the United States the tails of dogs
belonging to these breeds are often docked, in both working and pet situations.

For more information visit: Neponset
Animal Hospital or Neponset Pet Center