DogHaven

Dog Health

Dog Health Calendar in South Africa

A dog health calendar helps owners remember prevention tasks before they become stressful. Use this guide and the free DogHaven tool as general planning support, then follow your vet's schedule.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-22

Educational guide

This page is for general South African dog-owner education. It does not replace a veterinarian, qualified behaviour professional, insurer, or other relevant professional. For urgent symptoms or fast-worsening problems, contact a vet immediately.

Quick takeaways

  • A calendar is a reminder system, not a medical schedule.
  • Vet guidance and product instructions come first.
  • Puppies, seniors, pregnant dogs, sick dogs, and dogs with chronic conditions need personalised vet planning.
  • Keep records for boarding, daycare, grooming, puppy school, travel, and emergencies.

What to track

Track the items that affect prevention, records, and routine care.

  • Vaccination dates and next boosters.
  • Rabies proof and booster reminders.
  • Deworming dates.
  • Tick and flea prevention dates.
  • Routine vet checkups.
  • Grooming and nail checks.
  • Dental checks and bad-breath concerns.

How to use reminders safely

Reminders should prompt a vet question, not replace one.

  • Do not repeat products more often than directed.
  • Do not delay vaccines because a calendar date was missed.
  • Do not use old medication or products without checking suitability.
  • Ask your vet how to catch up after missed prevention.

Questions to ask your vet

Build your calendar from your vet's recommendations.

  • What are the next three dates I should record?
  • Which reminders should be monthly, seasonal, or annual for my dog?
  • What should change when my puppy becomes an adult or my dog becomes senior?
  • Which records should I keep for boarding, daycare, grooming, or travel?

When to ignore the calendar and call now

Weakness, collapse, pale gums, breathing trouble, repeated vomiting, seizures, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fast-worsening symptoms need urgent veterinary care.

Puppies, elderly dogs, pregnant dogs, sick dogs, and dogs with chronic conditions should be checked sooner.

If your dog is unwell, do not wait for the next planned check. Contact a vet for concerning symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Can DogHaven create exact reminders for my dog?

No. DogHaven provides general planning prompts only. Your vet's schedule is the one to follow.

What records should I keep?

Keep vaccine cards, rabies proof, medication notes, parasite prevention dates, microchip details, and vet visit summaries.

Does the health calendar store my data?

No. The DogHaven tool does not collect personal information or store data.