Pet ownership can be incredibly rewarding. Having a pet in the home is also very common. Around 68 percent of households in the US own a pet. Dogs in particular are especially popular. There are nearly 90 million pet dogs in the US. If you are considering bringing man's best friend into your home, there are a few things that you should know. Dogs, just like people, will require medical care. Visits to the veterinarian are a must. Here are three things that you should know about veterinarian care for your dog.
Regular Visits Are Needed
Even if your dog seems completely healthy, regular checkups at the veterinarian are a must. The frequency of these visits will vary depending on the age of your dog, their size, and their overall health. Puppies will require multiple visits for vaccinations as well as spaying and neutering. Once your dog is an adult between the ages of 1 and 7-10 years checkups are recommended once per year. Once your dog is elderly, checkups are recommended twice per year.
Costs Can Vary
The cost of visits to the veterinarian can vary depending on your dog and their individual health needs. The average cost of a typical office visit to the veterinarian for a checkup is right around $50. A visit to a specialist is typically more expensive costing around $250. Surgeries and other specialized procedures can be even more expensive. It's a good idea to set aside some funds in case of a medical emergency that requires immediate care. Visits to emergency veterinarians and to emergency veterinarian hospitals can be very pricey. If you are planning on getting a dog, you may also want to look into how much veterinarian care typically costs.
Insurance Is A Good Option
Another thing to consider is that pet insurance is also a great option if you are planning on getting a dog. Pet insurance will cover some of the medical costs involved with having a dog. The average cost of pet insurance for a dog is $44.66 per month. These plans cover a certain percentage of the costs associated with visiting the veterinarian. You will also have to meet a deductible before costs above a certain amount are covered.
Veterinarian care for your dog is key. If you are planning on getting a dog, there are a few things that you should know. Regular visits are a must, usually once per year for most adult dogs. Costs can also vary. If you are concerned with the cost of veterinary care, pet insurance is a good option. Talk to a veterinarian in your area for more information.
Share20 February 2019
For years, I wanted to fill my home with happy animals. When I got married, my spouse wanted a pet just as much as I did, and it was great to start looking for pets together. We were able to find a rescue animal who worked well with our budget and our lifestyle, and it was neat to give that sweet animal a home. However, after we brought the pet into our home, we realized that he needed some medical care. We turned to a veterinarian for advice on his medical health, and we worked on getting him completely vaccinated. Check out this blog for more information on finding help early.
