Pugs are a special breed of dog. They are cute, adorable, lovable and make one of the greatest companions you can find. But they also require special care and it's best to keep a few very important points in mind when you look for a veterinarian to take care of your special little friend. The breed goes back hundreds of years and they are unique not only in appearance and disposition but in their physical characteristics as well. When searching for a doctor for yourself or a family member you wouldn't think twice about taking the extra time to find the right professional so it's entirely logical to do the same thing for your Pug. As cute as they are, this breed has special care requirements that you want to make sure your veterinarian knows about.
We have the greatest respect for veterinarians but, just as there are areas of specialization in medicine, there are some vets who have more experience with Pugs than others. That special knowledge and experience can be very important and make a big difference in the care of your Pug. For example, Pugs are a brachycephalic breed. This means they have short muzzles or flat faces. Although it's one of the things that make them absolutely adorable, it also poses a higher risk for certain problems and conditions. Pugs are more prone to breathing problems than other dogs. Not only should they never become overheated (which could result in respiratory distress) but they should also always be watched for constricted nostrils and other blockages of their respiratory system. It will take a veterinarian with some Pug experience to know what to look for. This is especially critical if your dog is undergoing anesthesia for spaying or neutering or other surgery.
SPAYING YOUR DOG
The wrinkles in a Pug's face and their prominent eyes make them almost irresistible but these charming characteristics can also make them candidates for other problems. Because of their eye structure, Pugs are more prone to eye injuries and other disorders. And because of the wrinkles in their skin, extra care needs to be taken to clean these areas carefully to avoid skin conditions that can develop into serious problems. Again, a knowledgeable and Pug experienced veterinarian can be a great source of expert advice not only for treatment but also prevention of these potential problems.
The bone structure of the Pug can also be a problem for certain knee and hip conditions that are more common in this breed. If you notice a change in their walk or a difficulty in jumping or going up or down stairs, it's worth calling this to the attention of your veterinarian as quickly as possible. Your vet is the best source of advice for maintaining the health of your little friend.
So, where do you find a Pug friendly vet? The best place to start is with the breeder where you got your Pug. Reputable breeders take great care in knowing where to go for expert medical advice. Another place is from any other Pug owners that you know. Word travels quickly in that network about top veterinary care. If you do not have access to either of those sources of information, don't be shy about calling the veterinarians in your area and asking about their experience with this adorable little breed. This is especially true in rural and farm areas where a veterinarian may do ninety percent of their business with horses, livestock and other farm animals.
As a final note, it is also worth taking the time to investigate what emergency facilities are available in your area before you actually need them. When humans get hurt the automatic response is to bring them to a hospital emergency room. They are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are usually equipped to handle major injuries. Your veterinarian may not able to supply the same around the clock service to your Pug. The good news is they will usually be part of a network of veterinarians who work together to care for your Pug no matter what time of day it is. In choosing a veterinarian make this emergency care assessment part of your analysis in getting the best medical care possible for your Pug.
Please don't get the impression that Pugs are, by nature, sickly or unhealthy. Do not think for a moment that you have chosen a problem breed. All pure dog breeds are prone to certain conditions. The intent here is only to make you aware of certain health conditions that are more prevalent in Pugs than in other breeds. Most Pugs are healthy and do not have the conditions mentioned here. Most Pugs live healthy lives for twelve to fifteen years or more. They are loving, lovable and will never tire of being your best friend!
Choosing the Right Veterinarian For Your Pug
J M Conner
http://www.i-love-pugs.com
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