Your Vet Knows More About Your Pet Than You Do

By default, pet owners prefer to believe that no one knows more about their furry friends than they do. On its face, that seems only natural—after all, one of the greatest joys of pet ownership is the bond you form with your pet. There’s a reason why people refer to themselves as “pet parents,” and their pets as “fur babies.” We want to believe that we know our pets best, almost in the way a parent knows their child.

But a truly responsible pet owner, like a responsible parent, knows that isn’t necessarily the case, especially when it comes to your pet’s health. These matters are best left to experts—that is, to doctors.

For example: Say your pup flashes an adorable face and gets you to share some of your snacks with them—snacks that just happen to contain chocolate. One might easily forget that chocolate is off-limits for all dogs, and can cause adverse reactions. And even if there’s such a thing as a “special pet chocolate,” studies show that it can cause obesity. That’s something a vet will be able to caution you against.

The same goes for when pets beg for table scraps. Cats, in particular, are less efficient than other animals at metabolizing dietary carbohydrates. Studies show that long-term feeding of carbs may have detrimental effects to their health. So if you think you’re doing your feline companions a favor whenever you give them your leftover rice meals and sandwiches, think again.

Foods with onions, garlic, and chives are also off the table, as these can upset both cats’ and dogs’ stomachs and could lead to serious health conditions.

Sadly, these nuggets of information aren’t exactly common knowledge among pet owners at large, and so the truth is that many don’t know what’s best for their pets. Well-intentioned affection can be blinding, and pets may suffer the consequences.

But don’t despair—that’s what veterinarians are for. Vets offer expertise and an objective pair of eyes whenever you need it.

For instance, a vet would also be able to work with you to develop a better exercise regimen for your pet. For many pet owners, exercise is just a matter of taking them out for a walk whenever they feel like it. But this isn’t always the case, especially this season. With summer in sight, asphalt roads can get too hot for dogs’ paws, which can be just as sensitive as your feet. Walking them during cooler times of day would seem ideal, but as always, it’s best to consult with your vet.

So yes, vet checkups and consultations are a must. These scenarios are just the tip of the iceberg, though—there are many other issues you will encounter as you go along. And that’s why you should take your cats or dogs to the vet not only when something’s wrong. Do it regularly so you’ll know what to give them before they even need it.

The good news is that vet visits are now made easier and more accessible so you don’t have to worry about the hassle of going outside.

In line with Royal Canin’s Bring My Pet To The Vet campaign, which aims to educate Filipino pet owners on the importance of pet health, you can now schedule your pet’s regular vet visits through the Royal Canin Club.

Even better: Royal Canin is providing free standard check-ups together with over 100 partner veterinary clinics nationwide for the first 20,000 dogs registered.

To avail of this offer, download the Royal Canin Club app and complete your pet’s profile. Check the store locator in the main menu then select vet as the store type. From there, you can find your nearest participating clinic where you can redeem a checkup voucher. You can then call and schedule an appointment at your selected clinic. Note that it’s a first-come, first-served basis so be sure to book a slot, ASAP.

For more information, visit the Royal Canin Philippines’ official website or download Royal Canin Club today via Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Follow the brand on Facebook for updates and promotions.