Is Your Pet Healthy?

Unlike people, your pets cannot tell you what's wrong when they're not feeling well. They can't tell you what hurts, or why. This check list is a good way to identify any potential problems which should be discussed with your veterinarian.

Home Health Exam:

• Pet's nose moist and free of any discharge.

• Teeth are clean, gums pink and breath relatively odor free.

• Eyes are clear and without discharge.

• Ears are clean, odor free and not tender or hot to touch.

• Coat is shiny and free of parasites.

• Skin is free of scabs, sores, lumps or bumps.

• Stools are firm and passed without severe straining and are regular.

• Breathing is regular and free of wheezing or coughing.

• You can feel your pet's ribs through the coat and skin and his weight is within regular limits for the size and breed.

• Your pet drinks normal amounts of water and urinates regularly.

• Has good appetite and keeps food down without vomiting.

• Your pet can walk and run without limping.

• Your pet is active and alert without being hyperactive and tiring easily.

If you answered "no" to any of these statements, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss your findings.

Pets are living longer, happier and healthier lives due to the advances in veterinary medicine. Health problems diagnosed and treated early may be the determining factor in saving your animal's life. Pet insurance can help ease the financial burden, helping owners make an immediate decision to proceed with expensive testing or treatment.

If you'd like more information on pet insurance contact Pet Plan at 1-877-4-Pet Plan or visit the Pet Plan web site at www.petplan.com.