As the cost of living crisis continues to impact households up and down the country, pet owners are finding ways to save money and reduce their outgoings. Expert canine trainer Max Randall, founder of MK9Plus Dog Training, says dog parents should first and foremost look at their pup's health and implement regular checks.
Sharing his top tip to cut down on vet expenses, Max told the Mirror : "Everything costs more money nowadays but caring for your dog doesn't have to be a bottomless pit. One way to save is by reducing vet visits, but how do we do this responsibly? The answer is preventative dog care."
Max describes preventative dog care as a health plan of essential physical checks - like examining your dog's eyes, nose, mouth and behaviour.
As well as helping to reduce your vet bills long-term, a regular check is super important for your pet's health.
"A fortnightly or monthly comprehensive home health care routine, in consultation with your vet, can keep your dog well whilst reducing vet bills and stress, as avoiding illnesses is easier than treating them," Max explained.
"One disclaimer, however, is that preventive health care is not a replacement for vet visits which should occur two to four times a year."
So what does a healthy dog look like? Max shares a step-by-step guide starting with your dog's nose.
Eyes and nose
"A healthy dog's nose is the same size on both sides and feels warm and moist to mildly dry," Max said.
"Doggy eyes should be clear and bright, and good dog ears appear a pale pink and generally clean.
"Your dog's skin will be a healthy pink or black, depending on the pigment.
"Neither nose, eyes, ears, or skin should be red, runny, itchy, smelly or flaky."
Mouth
"Strong canine teeth are white or cream, though some senior dogs may have minimal brown tar," Max explained.
"You can also check the condition of your dog's gums which should be pink or black, depending on skin pigment.
"Bad signs are inflammation, bleeding, excessive salivation or smelly breath.
"Checking your dog's mucous membrane, which is the body tissue lining their gums and inside the upper lip, can speak volumes about your dog's health.
"A good mucous membrane is pink or black and moist. If it is pale or blue, this may indicate low blood pressure or shock.
"Yellow signifies jaundice, and red may signal heatstroke, bacterial infection or high blood pressure.
"You can check blood flow by pressing your forefinger or thumb against your dog's gum until there is no colour and releasing.
"Good blood flow returns within 1-2 seconds. Slower or quicker means a trip to the vet."
Diet and grooming
Leading busy lives, we mustn't neglect canine essentials such as enough physical and mental exercise to sleep the recommended 18 to 20 hours per day and maintain a healthy weight.
"Your dog's diet should be as fresh and complete as possible, with the right portions, because most canine diseases are lifestyle-related," Max said.
"It is worth it to learn basic care skills such as dog-proofing your home, nail clipping, tooth brushing, ear cleaning, first aid, and administering medications.
"Take a dog grooming class; regular grooming allows you to spot any early symptoms of illness.
"Be sure to worm your dog regularly, though remember that poor dog mental health can also cause runny poos and constipation.
"If your dog loses her appetite, get to a vet but understand this could be a behavioural issue too."
Behaviour
Be aware of your dog's behaviour and what isn't normal, for example, is she quieter than usual with her head down? Is she being unpredictable?
"Knowing more about your dog and how things should be is critical to being pre-emptive," Max explained.
"A chipped tooth, bad nail or tummy problem can cause your dog to act aggressively fast.
"Behaviours worsen if minor health issues are not spotted early, negatively affecting your dog's mental health.
"Always remember unwanted behaviours are your dog's way of telling you that there is a problem you need to fix.
"Remember, if health issues create undesirable behaviours in your dog, no training will fix it."
If you can read the subtle signs your dog sends you, you'll be able to spot early indications of trouble.
Max added: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Wise words relating to our dog's health that can save on vet bills as the cost of living rises."
Do you have a dog story to share? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
