General Dog Care – Supporting Your Dog’s Health and Happiness

Dogs are loyal, intelligent companions who thrive on routine, attention, and a healthy lifestyle. As a mobile vet servicing the Sunshine Coast, I can help you stay on top of your dog’s health and well-being from the comfort of your home.

Companionship and Exercise

Dogs are social animals who need your time and interaction every day - not just food and walks.

• Dogs need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Walks, play, training games and puzzle feeders all help reduce boredom and stress.

• Most dogs need at least one walk a day, though the amount depends on their age, breed and health.

• Dogs left alone for long hours may develop anxiety or destructive behaviours.

For enrichment ideas, visit my puzzle feeder page.

Diet and Feeding

Feeding a complete, balanced, high-quality dog food supports long-term health.

• Choose a diet suitable for your dog’s life stage and health needs.

• Large breed puppies (dogs >30kg as adults) need specific large breed puppy food to reduce their risk of joint issues later in life.

• Puppies should be fed 3-4 times daily; most adult dogs are fed once or twice daily.

• Fresh water must always be available.

• Avoid feeding table scraps - many human foods are toxic to dogs or contribute to weight gain.

I can provide personalised nutrition advice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, food allergies, or weight concerns.

?? Welcoming a New Puppy

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming! Puppies require gentle handling, consistent routines, and early positive experiences to help them grow into confident adult dogs.

• Start with regular toileting, short training sessions, and socialisation with new sights and sounds.

• Establish good habits early around feeding, sleep, behaviour and vet care.

• Book your puppy’s first check-up to discuss vaccinations, worming, nutrition and development.

For practical tips, routines, and gentle guidance, you can find my Puppy Care Guide on Etsy—created especially for new puppy owners.

Preventive Vet Care

Regular check-ups help detect issues early - before they become serious.

• Vaccinations: I recommend annual protection using the Protech C5 vaccine, which guards against parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis, and 2 kennel cough viruses.

• Worming: Every 3 months is recommended to control intestinal worms.

• Flea and tick prevention: Essential in South East Queensland to protect against paralysis ticks, which can be life-threatening. I can advise on the most suitable products.

• Microchipping: Required by law in Queensland. Ensure your details are current with the registry.

At each home visit, I also assess your dog’s skin, coat, ears, eyes, teeth, weight, and overall condition.

More on tick control.

?? Desexing Your Dog

Desexing is an important step in responsible dog ownership. It not only prevents unwanted litters but also helps reduce behavioural issues and lowers the risk of certain health problems.

Puppies are typically desexed around 4 to 6 months of age, although the best timing can vary based on breed and expected adult size. Larger breeds may benefit from later desexing to support proper growth and joint development, while smaller breeds usually reach maturity earlier.

?? Read my blog: Why Desexing Your Dog Is Important

Behaviour and Training

Training helps your dog feel secure and strengthens your bond.

• Puppies benefit from early, positive socialisation and consistent routines.

• Adult dogs continue to benefit from learning and mental stimulation.

• I can help with issues such as barking, digging, humping, anxiety, or aggression.

Learn more about managing behaviour at home.

Grooming and Skin Care

Grooming keeps your dog comfortable and supports healthy skin and coat.

• Regular brushing reduces mats, shedding, and lets you spot skin changes early.

• Bathe your dog as needed using a gentle dog shampoo. I recommend Aloveen for dogs with normal skin.

• Trim nails every 4-8 weeks, especially if your dog mostly walks on soft surfaces. Don’t forget the dew claws.

• Clean your dog’s ears regularly, especially if they have floppy ears, a history of infections, or go swimming. Use a drying ear cleaner after swims.

I offer nail trims and advice on skin and coat care during home visits.

Dental Care

Good dental hygiene is essential for your dog’s overall health, yet many owners overlook this part of care.

Dental disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even more serious conditions such as heart or kidney problems. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly with a dog-safe toothpaste is the best way to prevent plaque and tartar build-up.

Dental chews and toys can help, but bones should not be given to dogs for dental care, as they can cause fractured teeth, choking, or digestive blockages.

If you notice signs of gum disease, such as bad breath, red gums, or difficulty eating, I recommend a professional dental check-up.

?? Read my full guide on dental care for dogs here

I can provide advice on dental care during a home visit and offer guidance on safe alternatives to bones.

A Safe, Comfortable Environment

Your dog deserves a secure, enriched home where they feel safe and settled.

• Provide a warm, dry resting area, protected from draughts and noise.

• Ensure your yard is securely fenced with closed gates.

• Always offer fresh water, shade, and shelter—especially in warmer months.

• Many dogs are frightened by storms or loud noises. I can help with storm phobia treatment and behaviour support.

Read my Blog on storm phobias in dogs.

Senior Dogs

Older dogs may slow down, but there’s a lot we can do to support their quality of life.

• Watch for signs like stiffness, dental pain, changes in appetite, or behaviour shifts.

• Early intervention can make a big difference—don’t assume it’s “just old age.”

• I offer tailored senior care plans, natural supplements, medications, and palliative care—all from the comfort of home.

Book a Mobile Dog Vet Visit

Need a check-up for your dog or want expert care at home?
?? Call Dr Terri’s Home Vet Visits for gentle, stress-free veterinary care across the Sunshine Coast.