It’s estimated that annually 16 percent of dogs will need an emergency veterinarian visit. Many of these expensive trips could be avoided by taking a few steps to take care of your dog to prevent emergency vet bills.
Learn more about your dog’s health and know where to take your dog in an emergency.
How to Avoid Emergency Vet Bills
Routine Care
A once-a-year wellness visit to the vet gives you the opportunity to discuss any issues your dog may be having with your provider. It identifies metabolic problems such as diabetes and heart disease, as well as parasites like heartworms or ticks. Make sure you give your dog heartworm preventatives which keep your dog healthy.
Your vet knows how to look for small bumps and lumps that could be problematic. Documentation helps you track changes to your dog and know what you should be concerned about.
Stomach Issues
Gastrointestinal issues are probably the number one reason dogs are taken to the emergency room. Vomiting and diarrhea are most often caused by your dog eating something he shouldn’t. Supervise your dog closely and keep him out of the trash. Similar to baby-proofing your home, you need to puppy proof your residence.
Dogs will chew up medicine bottles and bottles of chemical products when they are not controlled. Watch your dog when you’re outside so that they don’t eat things off the ground.
Being Outside Has Risks
A dog can get sunburn and heat stroke the same as a human. Don’t ever leave your dog in the car unattended. When they are outside, make sure they have shade and water.
Keep your dog contained on a leash or in a fenced yard, so that they don’t run out in front of a car.
If you live in the country or a rural area that is surrounded by wildlife like raccoons or skunks, determine a method to protect your dog. When your dog comes inside after playing in a field, park, or forest, check them for ticks and small burrs and stickers. Look between their toes and in their ears.
When the Worst Happens
You can prevent many accidents by being alert, but sometimes you do need to find an emergency vet. Take five minutes now and find a 24-hour emergency clinic in your area and put that number in your phone and on your fridge. Locate the ASPCA poison control hotline and store it in your phone.
Carry a pet first aid kit along with the one you carry for your family. Being prepared for an emergency with your dog helps you keep your head and get the right help quickly.
I hope these tips will help you avoid emergency vet visits and vet bills.
I am always watch to make sure my dog is okay.