Chapter 6 – Goldendoodle Health Although your veterinarian is your dog’s primary physician, you are your pet’s real healthcare provider on a daily basis. No one will ever know your dog better than you do, or have your ability to judge what is “normal.” Even if there is no obvious injury or illness, if you have the sense that something is wrong, get your dog checked out. The more that you understand preventive health care, the more finely tuned your senses will be in this matter. Your Veterinarian is Your Partner Finding a qualified veterinarian is a crucial first step in dog ownership. If you do not already have a vet, ask your breeder for recommendations, or contact your local dog club for referrals. Your first trip to the vet should be solo. Your purpose is to meet the doctor and evaluate the facility. Be clear about this when you call and make the appointment, and express your desire to pay for a regular office visit. Do not waste anyone’s time when you get there. Have your questions ready, and make sure the following points are covered. How long has this practice been open? How many vets work here? Are any of those doctors specialists? If so, in what area? If not, to whom do you refer patients? What are your regular business hours? Are you affiliated with an emergency clinic? Do you have emergency hours? What specific services do you offer?
Chapter 6 – Goldendoodle Health Although your veterinarian is your dog’s primary physician, you are your pet’s real healthcare provider on a daily basis. No one will ever know your dog better than you do, or have your ability to judge what is “normal.” Even if there is no obvious injury or illness, if you have the sense that something is wrong, get your dog checked out. The more that you understand preventive health care, the more finely tuned your senses will be in this matter. Your Veterinarian is Your Partner Finding a qualified veterinarian is a crucial first step in dog ownership. If you do not already have a vet, ask your breeder for recommendations, or contact your local dog club for referrals. Your first trip to the vet should be solo. Your purpose is to meet the doctor and evaluate the facility. Be clear about this when you call and make the appointment, and express your desire to pay for a regular office visit. Do not waste anyone’s time when you get there. Have your questions ready, and make sure the following points are covered. How long has this practice been open? How many vets work here? Are any of those doctors specialists? If so, in what area? If not, to whom do you refer patients? What are your regular business hours? Are you affiliated with an emergency clinic? Do you have emergency hours? What specific services do you offer?
Goldendoodle%20Book-Revised%20January%202015.docx