CANINE WELLNESS CHECKLIST FOR PET OWNERS
We are committed to the highest-standards of health care for dogs
At Norw alk Animal Hospital, we are big supporters of canine wellness care. Norwalk Animal Hospital is a long-standing accredited (AAHA) animal hospital, committed to the highest-standards of health care for dogs. We prepared this checklist designed to help pet owners proactively manage their dog’s health in partnership with us.
At-Home Wellness Monitoring
At home wellness monitoring is just as important as an annual or bi-annual exam at Norwalk Animal Hospital. Here are the things you can monitor at home to be sure your dog is at their healthy best:
| Category | What to Monitor | Action |
| Physical Appearance | Lumps, bumps, sores, or changes in coat. | Regularly run your hands over your dog's body, paying attention to any new masses. |
| Oral Health | Bad breath, plaque buildup, or red/swollen gums. | Brush your dog's teeth daily or use dental chews. |
| Diet & Thirst | Changes in appetite or a significant increase/decrease in water intake. | Note any changes and discuss them with the veterinary team at Norwalk Animal Hospital. |
| Weight | Sudden weight gain or loss. | Monitor your dog's weight using a scale and a body condition score chart. |
| Activity Level | Reluctance to play, climb stairs, or jump. | Observe your dog's movement for signs of pain or arthritis. |
| Behavior | Increased anxiety, lethargy, or changes in interactions. | Pay close attention to any shifts in your dog's normal behavior. |
| Don't Wait for Symptoms | Many serious conditions, like kidney disease or certain cancers, don't show visible symptoms until they are advanced. | Schedule an exam with us. Proactive testing during a wellness exam can catch these issues early. |
Topics to Discuss with Your Veterinarian at Norwalk Animal Hospital
Your dog’s annual exam appointments are about more than just vaccinations; they’re a dedicated time to partner with your veterinarian to ensure your dog lives a long, healthy, and happy life. To make the most of your visit, it’s helpful to come prepared with a list of topics to discuss. This proactive approach ensures you address all aspects of your dog’s health, from diet and exercise to behavior and preventive care, allowing your vet to provide the most comprehensive and personalized recommendations.
| Category | Specifics to Address | Why Address This With Your Veterinarian |
| Vaccinations | Review your dog's vaccine schedule | Ensures your dog is protected against core and lifestyle-based diseases |
| Parasite Control | Discuss year-round prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms | Norwalk Animal Hospital provides experience and advice on the best preventative products. Keeping your dog on parasite control prevention means your dog and your family will be protected against serious diseases. |
| Nutrition | Your dog's current diet, treats, and supplements. | Make sure your dog is getting the right nutrients for their life stage and activity level. Norwalk Animal Hospital offers nutritional guidance and will help you with your dog’s unique nutritional requirements. |
| Diagnostic Testing | Routine lab work (e.g., blood and urine tests). | Establishes a baseline for your dog's health and can catch diseases early, often before they become more costly to treat. |
| Dental Care | Professional cleaning schedule and at-home care. | Good oral hygiene is vital for overall health and can prevent systemic disease. Norwalk Animal Hospital offers comprehensive dental care. |
| Spay/Neuter Status | Discuss the health benefits and risks. | Helps prevent certain cancers and other health issues. |
| Microchipping | Ensure your dog is microchipped and your information is current. | Norwalk Animal Hospital offers microchipping services to increase the chances of being reunited if your dog gets lost. |
| Mental Stimulation | Ways to provide enrichment. | Prevents boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors. |
| Pet Boarding | Inquire about boarding services for your next trip. | Norwalk Animal Hospital offers a safe and professional place for your pet while you're away. |
Sources:
- The veterinarians at Norwalk Animal Hospital
- Veterinary Partner (VIN): A resource for pet owners with articles written by veterinarians.
- AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association)
- AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association)
