Why You Should Journal Your Dog's Health

Journaling about your health could be a proactive step toward better health management and clear communication with healthcare providers. The same is true for dogs.

Taking note of your dog's health information, such as vaccinations, medications, and recurring issues offers you firsthand knowledge of your dog's well-being and make it easier to provide valuable information during an emergency or vet visit.

According to Dr. Yanoff, a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon, a dog's health journal can be detailed or simple. The key is to tailor it to fit your dog's health requirements and circumstances. Some helpful information that could be added to a journal includes food allergies, flea and heartworm prevention schedules, abnormal health symptoms, and emergency contacts.

"When you notice, 'Man, that's not right,' you have a log. You could go back in your log and know, on such and such I thought this was a little strange … It's nice to have all this information at your fingertips." Dr. Yanoff said.

Journaling is a useful tool for you and your veterinarian. Noting the events leading up to an event, such as seizure, aggression, or anxiety, might help identify potential triggers. It is challenging to treat behavior disorders without knowledge of the underlying causes.

Today, there are different smartphone apps that can help you log your dog's health details. You could also take the DIY route if you prefer to create your own version and make customization to fit specific needs.