Questions to ask your vet
A printable list of questions to take to your vet when your older dog is slowing down, itching or struggling with recurring problems.
You know your dog better than anyone. Your vet knows medicine. The best appointments happen when both kinds of knowledge are in the room.
Before you go
Write down what you have noticed, and when. Short videos on your phone are useful, especially for things that come and go.
- What changed, and when did you first notice it?
- Is it worse at particular times of day or year?
- Has anything changed at home: food, treats, walks, cleaning products?
Questions about the problem
- What do you think is the most likely cause?
- What else could it be?
- Which tests would tell us more, and what would they cost?
- Is this something that can be resolved, or something we will manage?
Questions about treatment
- What are the options, including doing nothing for now?
- What does the evidence say for each?
- What side effects should I watch for?
- How will we know if it is working, and when should we review?
If you have read about peptides
It is fine to raise it. A good vet will take the question seriously.
- I have read about peptides such as BPC-157. What is your view of the evidence?
- Are there authorised treatments for this problem that I should consider first?
- Is there anything I am giving my dog now that you would want to know about?
After the appointment
Ask for the plan in writing if it is complicated. Book the review before you leave. Keep your notes in one place.
BPC-157 is supplied for research use only. It is not a veterinary medicine and is not for human or animal consumption.