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Finding a Healthy Pet
by Susan E. Davis
reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.
No matter where you get your pet, making sure the object of your affections is healthy is key. What you look for depends, in large part, on the species and breed you choose, and you should do considerable research before pulling out your checkbook.
Some general indicators of poor health are:- Runny or crusty eyes or noses. This can be a sign of respiratory or eye infections. Such infections are generally treatable with antibiotics, so it's not a reason to dismiss an animal immediately (especially if you're at a shelter). But if a lot of the animals at a pet store or farm have these symptoms, it's a sign that the owners aren't taking good care of their pets, which could mean your potential pet has other problems, too.
- Ears. Head shaking and scratching may be a sign of fleas, ear mites, excess wax, or infection. Again, these maladies usually can be treated, but consider the cost involved and the care the animal has received in the past.
- Mouth and teeth. You may need help looking into the mouth of some animals, but even quickly checking out the teeth can tell you a lot about their health. Teeth that are overgrown or crooked (also called maloccluded) will need to be trimmed, straightened, or removed, for instance.
- Feathers, fur, skin, and scales. In general, you're looking for smooth, shiny fur and feathers, without large bald patches or visible dandruff. Fish should have intact bodies (i.e., no torn fins) and should be free of white or mold-like spots.
- Private parts. You may feel squeamish about this, but just as you're intimately familiar with your young childrens' privates, you need to get familiar with your pets' nether regions. And there's no time like the present. The area around the anus and down the hind legs of your potential pet should be fairly clean. Matted feces can be a sign of a digestive disorder; urine-soaked fur can be a sign of a bladder infection or incontinence. Urine-soaked or poop-smeared bodies also can be a sign of poor husbandry on the part of the owner, which may foreshadow other health problems.
Of course, if you're experienced with animals or if you've found a little creature who has just stolen your heart, nursing him back to health can literally save his life--and teach your child the great rewards that come from helping a suffering animal. I myself have taken in many a sick, mean, and otherwise miserable wretch of an animal, only to have it turn into a beloved household pet. Sweet-tempered, healthy animals are great, but sometimes you have to go for the one who makes your heart sing.
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Created February 15, 2001
Reviewed February 17, 2001
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