Vet shares advice with pet owners
With over 20 years of experience as a veterinarian, Shabeer said, with the basics not being addressed by pet owners, the challenges remain unchanged.
Celebrated on the last Saturday of April, World Veterinary Day highlights the work done by veterinarians.
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Founded by the World Veterinary Association in 2000, the day gives animal lovers the chance to celebrate veterinarians’ contributions to the health of animals, people and the environment.
This year, World Veterinary Day will be celebrated on April 30.
Considering this, the NEWS spoke to Dr Shabeer Bhoola of Terrace Road Veterinary Hospital to learn what pet owners can do for their furry friends.
With over 20 years of experience as a veterinarian, Shabeer said, with the basics not being addressed by pet owners, the challenges remain unchanged.
“By sterilising, vaccinating, inoculating and micro-chipping their pets, owners can be saved a great deal of heartache,” said Shabeer.
“Depending on where you go, micro-chipping and vaccinations are not that expensive and should be common practice by now.”
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When a stray animal is brought to a vet or the SPCA, one of the first things veterinary staff do is scan the animal for a microchip.
Shabeer said this allows the swift return of the animal to the rightful owners.
Shabeer encouraged pet owners to take greater care of their pet’s teeth.
“Poor dental hygiene and infected teeth are one of the leading causes of heart and kidney diseases among older cats and dogs.
“Giving your pets’ teeth more attention will make a difference.”
As financial pressures grow, Shabeer said a game-changer that assisted pet owners in bridging the gap of medical expenses has been pet insurance.
“Pet insurance can help bridge the costs of a procedure and can change the outcome,” said Shabeer.
Giving an example, Shabeer explained dachshunds are prone to developing life-threatening back problems.
“Although medical treatments are available, they are not as successful as surgical treatments, which are more expensive.”
Shabeer said as much as humans rely on animals for comfort and compassion, pet owners need to be responsible.
He said if they are unsure about their pet’s well-being or health, they should seek medical help as soon as possible.
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