When most people think of veterinarians, they usually think of a doctor for pets who treats their illnesses and performs surgeries. While that’s an accurate assessment, veterinarians often go above and beyond these services and help pets in many other, unexpected, ways. Our Advanced Veterinary Care of Pasco team wants you to be aware of our other contributions to your furry companion’s emotional and physical health. You may be surprised.

1. Our veterinarian offers pet behavior consultations

Our team often provides crucial support in diagnosing and treating pets’ behavioral issues. Pet behaviors can range from anxiety and phobias to aggression to compulsive behaviors. We can determine the root cause of these behaviors and recommend behavioral therapy, training programs, or medications that can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life.

2. Our veterinarians offer nutritional counseling

While most pet owners know diet is essential for their pet’s health and vitality, our team can offer individualized nutritional knowledge and advice. Whether your pet is dealing with obesity, allergies, or other specific health conditions that affect their weight, we can customize a diet that guarantees your pet receives the right balance of nutrients. 

3. Our veterinarian provides rehabilitation and physical therapy

Rehabilitation and physical therapy can benefit pets recovering from surgery or injury, or those with chronic conditions such as arthritis or hip dysplasia. Our team will prescribe and oversee a range of treatments, including hydrotherapy and physiotherapy, that improve your furry friend’s mobility and reduce pain.

4. Our veterinary team prevents oral disease through dental care

Many pet owners overlook oral health, which is a crucial component of your pet’s overall health. Our veterinarian provides comprehensive dental care, from routine cleanings to complex procedures, such as extractions and root canals. Essential dental care, which includes at-home and professional cleanings, can prevent serious health issues such as tooth decay and loss that can lead to severe systemic infections that affect the heart, kidneys, and liver. Dental care also contributes to quality of life, because dental problems can be painful and affect your pet’s ability to eat.

5. Our veterinarian offers preventive care and wellness 

As the adage goes: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Our team emphasizes the importance of preventive care, offering regular wellness checks that can catch health issues early before they become serious. Wellness screenings are more than a simple physical examination and include preventive vaccinations, parasite control, and blood testing to stay on top of your pet’s health.

6. Our veterinary team uses advanced diagnostics 

Our veterinarian has access to state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, such as equipment to perform MRIs, ultrasound, and endoscopy. These tools allow for early detection and precise diagnosis of various health conditions, enabling timely and effective treatment.

7. Our veterinarian provides compassionate end-of-life services

Facing the end of your pet’s life is one of the most difficult challenges of pet ownership. We provide compassionate end-of-life care, including pain management, hospice services, and euthanasia. We also counsel pet owners when they are trying to make difficult choices. Our goal is to ensure that your pet’s final days are as comfortable and dignified as possible.

8. Our veterinarian offers husbandry advice

If you are considering breeding your cat or dog, you must be knowledgeable about the many complex aspects of care required to ensure a healthy mom and litter. Pregnant and nursing mothers need additional nutritional support and wellness care, while potential fathers require dietary support to encourage breeding suitability. Our team can guide you through best pet husbandry practices for healthy adults and puppies or kittens. 

9. Our team promotes pet mental enrichment

Your pet’s mental health is as important as their physical well-being. Mental enrichment involves challenging and interesting activities, such as puzzles, games, and interactive toys, that will keep your pet mentally engaged. We recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.

Indoor cats can benefit from climbing structures, window perches, scratching posts, and interactive toys, such as feather wands. Dogs enjoy daily walks or hikes, supervised swimming, and chewing toys. 

10. Our team can provide emergency and urgent veterinary care

In pet emergencies, our veterinarians are the first responders. They are trained to handle many urgent, life-saving situations, from traumatic injuries to acute illnesses.

Veterinarians not only treat sick and injured pets but also play an important role in every facet of your pet’s life. Our team’s dedication and diverse expertise help your pet lead a happier, healthier life, often in ways beyond the typical veterinary care expectations. 

Schedule an appointment with our Advanced Veterinary Care of Pasco for your pet’s annual wellness screening and learn about the many services we can provide.