Prevention is better than cure!

One of the joys of being involved in the veterinary care world now, is how much the focus of our care has moved from reactionary to preventative care, meaning that as a profession we are more equipped with both education and medication to help owners keep their pets healthy. Alongside the yearly health checks and vaccinations with the veterinary surgeon, the trained veterinary nursing team are also equipped to run clinics, offer advice and checks to help you and your pet throughout their life, and live a life aided by preventative healthcare rather than reactionary treatment.

This care starts from a young age. A puppy or kitten brings joy, energy and love into your home but can also bring worms, fleas and disease if not lucky enough to have been born to a conscientious breeder. Not only do most practices offer vaccinations and a full health check with a vet but our nurses back this care up with free puppy and kitten clinics, puppy parties and adolescent checks, where they can give you advice on weight, socialisation, diet and exercise. Getting the behaviour training right with your new pet has a lifelong impact and getting the exercise levels correct assists with reducing or preventing future problems with joint disease as well as with mental health. A correctly balanced diet is very important in these fast-growing babies to ensure a healthy adult.

Yearly vaccinations with a vet also include a full health check which is an excellent time to pick up other underlying problems which may have developed over the year and to discuss preventative worming and flea control. Nurses and vets are there to offer support throughout your pets’ life from puppy to old age. Recently there have been a number of new products for the prevention of worms and fleas and this can be confusing, but your vet practice is the best place to discuss the correct options for your pet.

We look forward to seeing you in 2019

Jo Godfrey - Head Nurse, Drake Vets