Home Evaluation of Pet Health

After a grass seed caused my dog so much grief that if cause us to think he was paralysed, I thought it necessary to research and discuss the benefits of being able to evaluate your animals health at home.

I am not suggesting that you don't need to visit a vet when your animal is sick but I encourage you to improve your bond with your pet to gain a better understanding of them, then when a situation occurs you will have the correct information and will be able to make a more informed decision - Is your pet's ailment treatable from home or does he require the attention of a vet?

I am a firm believer in natural remedies. I believe that some prescribed medicines, both in animals and humans, can weaker their immune system making them more susceptible to infection.

Being able to physically examine your pet is beneficial for a number of reasons, by becoming familiar with your pets' body you will notice when there are abnormalities and you will form a stronger bond with your pet by giving it that bit of extra attention. Simply grooming your pet gives you an opportunity to check his skin, eyes, ears, mouth and paws.

My method is to start from the head and work my way down. Firstly, check that the eyes are bright and clear, they should have no discolouration and be free of runny discharge. Check their ears are dry with no discharge, if the ears smell this could indicate an infection in the ear canal. Next is the mouth, it is a good idea to assist in the upkeep of your animals' dental hygiene by brushing their teeth regular with products that are available from most pet shops and vets, while brushing their teeth check that their gums are a nice healthy pink, not pale or red.

Brush your hands firmly down your animals' chest, across his back and down to each paw, check his nails, long nails can cause lameness. Finally examine your pets' skin and check for fleas, to do this brush him from head to toe paying attention to his reaction, If he shows signs of pain or tenderness in any areas check over for lumps or sores and if one is found take note of it's characteristics and inform your vet. Check for dry skin and dandruff, this may indicate a lack of nutrients in his diet. Last of all, to check for fleas, wet a fine tooth comb with warm soapy water and brush through your pets' coatm this will pick up any fleas that may be present and the water and soap will prevent them from jumping back onto your pet. Finish your examination with a gentle massage, this will help to make the experience pleasant for your pet and will help you to form a stonger bond.