How to do a monthly head-to-tail check on my dog and what to look for?

Question

My dog is a very active Therapy Dog making about 20 visits a month. Since doing this I have met many people. Now friends, one told me I should do a monthly head to tail check up in case she catches something before her regular vet checkup. How do I do that and what am I looking for? Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | spayed | 4 years and 2 months old | 70 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

Yes, checking her regularly is a good idea. You will mainly be concerned with things that she could pick up or spread from her visits like ringworm and parasites. Basically, run your hands along her whole body checking for any lumps, bumps, rough patches or hair loss. Push her fur backwards so you can actually see her skin. Look particularly close around the base of her tail/lower back, groin, arm pits and in between her paw pads. Looks for any redness, flaky skin or waxy debris. Also be sure to look inside her ears for discharge, redness or sensitively. Lastly, keep her on flea (possibly tick as well) and a heartworm prevention to decrease the potential for parasites. Interceptor is a great heartworm prevention because it gets most of the intestinal worms as well. Trifexis is a great product that gets fleas, most of the intestinal worms and heartworm all in one pill. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

How to do a monthly head-to-tail check on my dog and what to look for?

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