Is it animal abuse if we haven't taken our dog to the vet in nine years. Though she's never been sick, and only had her first set of shots?

Ask: Is it animal abuse if we haven't taken our dog to the vet in nine years. Though she's never been sick, and only had her first set of shots?

Answer

Science Times:
It isn't abuse, it's neglect. Dogs absolutely need to have their vaccinations, unless they are teeny lil dogs that use litter boxes inside and never go outside to be exposed to pathogens and other animals (who might have pathogens).

They also need their teeth cleaned, unless you're brushing the dog's teeth, in which case a dental check up every year during the annual wellness visit is often enough.

The immunity from vaccinations doesn't last, so boosters are needed. In addition, unless you live somewhere that heartworm isn't a problem (I don't know of any place that can be said of), dogs need heartworm prevention meds from the vet.

There are low cost options available. Check with an animal rescue group to see if they can tell you about some of the coupons, programs, or low-cost vet services.

Paul:
Nope, I don't think so, however taking a dog to a vet is probably a good idea. I'll tell you what is dog abuse, people who leave their dog 24/7 in a fenced backyard, they bark insistently, they make tracks around the fence because they are bored AND dogs that are clearly over weight, which would be 7 of 10 of every dog in the U.S. anyhow. 

Lakelady:

I don't believe so. Many experts believe that the reason dogs in Europe live 15% longer that American dogs is because they aren't run to the vet every time they sneeze. Medications for animals just don't have the oversight that medicines for humans do. 

I grew up rurally and live rurally and people out here tend to take their dogs only for the required rabies vaccines and injuries that need a surgeon. Livestock out here sees more veterinary care than pets do. 

I took my chow chows all the time, but I was breeding them so they needed constant health checks and pre-whelping, whelping, and post whelping care and the puppies were being sold so they HAD to be thoroughly checked.

Anna:

I depends on who you ask. I personally would say no if the dog seems to be in good health and as long as you are willing to take them if they get sick or injured. As long as they have adequate shelter, decent food and fresh water, adequately groomed and personal attention they are not being abused at all.