Dogward Decision Kit

Bring better questions to the vet.

Use this checklist to gather what you have noticed and what you want to understand. It is not a diagnostic tool and does not replace urgent veterinary care.

Appointment preparation

Check what is ready and add a note if it will help you remember a detail.

Ready for the visit0 of 12 ready

Bring the recordHealth, vaccination, or adoption recordsInclude previous clinic information if you have it.Current medicines and supplementsWrite down names, amounts, and when they are given.Food, treats, and recent changesNote brands, portions, treats, and when a change began.Short videos or photos if usefulOnly when safe; show movement, breathing, skin, behavior, or an environment detail.

Describe the patternWhen did you first notice it?Record the date or the best estimate.How often and how long does it happen?Note what you see before, during, and after.What has changed recently?Travel, food, routine, medication, visitors, stress, or access to the outdoors can matter.What is normal for this dog?Compare appetite, energy, sleep, bathroom habits, and behavior with their usual pattern.

Ask the care teamWhat possibilities are you considering?Ask what would make one explanation more or less likely.What tests or monitoring are useful?Ask what each step would tell you and when results are expected.What should we do at home?Write down amounts, timing, restrictions, and what improvement should look like.Which changes need urgent help?Ask when to call, where to go after hours, and what not to give at home.

My notes or questions

If your dog has trouble breathing, collapses, has a serious injury, is in severe pain, or may have eaten something dangerous, contact an emergency veterinary service rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

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