The Premise of Prevention

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The Premise of Prevention

Dogs and cats are living longer and healthier lives thanks to regular physical exams and preventive care. Preventive medicine, or ‘wellness,’ is something that started in humans and then went to animals (often advances in medicine work the other way around). The premise is this: if you can prevent or catch illness early on, it’s easier on the pet, the owner and the pocketbook.

Routine blood and urine tests are a thorough way of assessing your pet’s general health. These screen for key indicators that arise much before clinical signs are noted. I routinely diagnose kidney and liver disease in pets that are acting completely normal. 

Dogs and cats cannot tell their family or their veterinarian the subtle signs of illness that humans express. When dogs and cats begin to show outward signs of illness, the health concerns are often so advanced that they are no longer treatable. “Survival of the fittest” is Mother Nature’s rule. Animals have an instinct that if they are weak, they succumb to predation. For that reason, in most cases your pet will often not show any signs of concern until they are very ill.

I believe a clinical focus on prevention is the most effective approach to pet health. Routine check-ups allow your veterinarian to diagnose, treat and protect your pet from contracting serious, costly and sometimes fatal diseases. I strive to partner with my clients to make sure their pets receive proper preventive care through:
Vaccinations
Dental Care
Parasite Control (heartworm, flea/tick, deworming)
Nutritional Counseling
Behavioral Counseling
Comprehensive Annual Examinations

It is this simple: If you want to save money on pet care, you need to work on preventing illness instead of having it treated after health problems have advanced. By practicing preventive care, you will save money, and you’ll also spare your pets a lot of suffering.

When a pet-lover and a veterinarian work together on preventive care for a pet, the result is a longer, happier life for your pet.

At Mountain West Animal Hospital, we believe a clinical focus on prevention is the most effective approach to pet health.

And that is my take.

N. Isaac Bott, DVM

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