[ PET OHANA ]
HAWAIIAN HUMANE SOCIETY
Wendy Asato, a veterinarian at VCA University Animal Hospital, gains Caesar's trust before an examination.
Preventive care for pets
includes checkups at vetTips for choosing a vet
Living with a companion animal is a fulfilling experience. Some people show their love by spending quality time with their pets, playing games and training them, taking long walks during the cool hours of the day, keeping them mentally active and nurturing their spirits. Another way people show they care about their pets is by taking them for checkups by their veterinarian, because it's important to keep pets healthy and happy.
Annual or semiannual veterinary exams will allow earlier detection of any problems. Without the trained eye of your pet's medical professional, a problem could be in an advanced stage by the time the pet exhibits noticeable symptoms.
Wendy Asato, a veterinarian at VCA University Animal Hospital, said: "Prevention cannot be stressed enough as a key to a longer, healthier life. During routine exams, veterinarians can alert owners of future health problems that their pets may experience due to old age, breed predisposition, inappropriate nutrition and exercise, and exposure to household chemicals and cleaners.
"Not only can we counsel owners in the proper care of their pets, but we can detect diseases earlier with examination and appropriate testing," she said.
KNOWN AS "the other family doctor," your veterinarian can diagnose conditions such as heartworms and other internal ailments that commonly affect pets. As practitioners of veterinary medicine, they can diagnose and provide treatments for problems using medications, surgery and even complementary and alternative methods. Regular visits can often predict and prevent problems from worsening or even occurring.
The visit to the veterinarian may include vaccinations to avert life-threatening diseases, testing for heartworms and other parasites, prescribing heartworm preventative, help with pet obesity and even assistance with behavioral issues.
There are also clinics that specialize in care for birds, small mammals and horses. A little research will lead your pet to the proper medical professional.
"Pet Ohana" runs the first and third Fridays of the month. The Hawaiian Humane Society is a nonprofit agency dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals. They are at 2700 Waialae Ave. Call 946-2187.
Hawaiian Humane Society
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Tips for choosing
a veterinarian>> Choose a veterinarian before an emergency happens.
>> Ask friends and family about their veterinarian and why they like them.
>> Make a list of the veterinarians you are considering, then call and ask for a brochure.
>> Visit the clinic or hospital and observe the facility.
>> Ask the veterinarian how much they charge for visits. Most are willing to give an estimate.
>> Find out if the office hours and payment options are convenient for you.
>> If you will be boarding your pet while you are on vacation, find out if they offer this service and if there are any requirements (such as an exam or vaccinations needed) prior to boarding.
>> Schedule an appointment with the veterinarian so all the questions you have can be answered.
>> Bring your pet when you meet with the veterinarian, and observe their interaction.
>> Even if the doctor is highly qualified, if you don't hit it off, go elsewhere. Develop a comfortable, solid relationship between you, your pet and your pet's doctor.
>> During each appointment, don't be afraid to ask questions. Be open and honest with your pet's doctor.
>> Follow the doctor's advice and don't ignore follow-up visits.
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