What to expect during an exam
- Your veterinary team will perform a nose-to-tail physical examination and gather important information about your pet’s lifestyle and health history.
- Discussion of health history: You will be asked about your pet’s diet, exercise, habits, and behavior. This is your opportunity to bring up any concerns you have.
- Weight and body condition: Your pet will be weighed, and their body condition scored to check for unhealthy weight gain or loss, which can indicate underlying health problems.
- Physical assessment: The veterinarian will carefully check your pet’s eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, joints, and abdomen for any signs of abnormality, infection, or disease.
- Vital signs: Their heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature will be measured to check for any irregularities.
- Diagnostic testing: Based on your pet’s age and overall health, your vet may recommend routine blood work, a fecal test to check for internal parasites, and a urinalysis.
The benefits of routine checkups
- Regular wellness exams are a proactive investment in your pet’s long-term health and can offer numerous benefits.
- Early detection: Catching illnesses like kidney disease, diabetes, or dental problems in their early stages often leads to more effective and less costly treatment.
- Preventative care: Ensure your pet is up-to-date on essential vaccinations and parasite preventatives to protect them from contagious and life-threatening diseases.
- Tailored healthcare: Receive personalized recommendations for your pet’s diet, exercise, and overall care, which may change as they age.
- Tailored healthcare: Receive personalized recommendations for your pet’s diet, exercise, and overall care, which may change as they age.
How often should my pet have a wellness exam?
- The recommended frequency depends on your pet’s age and health status.
- Puppies and kittens: Require frequent visits (every 3–4 weeks) during their first few months to receive initial vaccinations and monitor their growth.
- Adult pets: Typically need an annual wellness exam. This may be more frequent if they have an ongoing medical condition.
- Senior pets: Are more susceptible to age-related illnesses, so semi-annual (every six months) exams are recommended to monitor for early signs of disease.
