We know that preventing disease or catching it in its early stages is better than treating it once it's progressed to a more severe stage. Preventive health care on a regular basis will help you do that.
The most important aspect of yearly care is a yearly exam, since out pets have a shorter life span. The earlier a problem is caught the better the outcome typically. Vaccines are given on the ‘as-needed’ basis with risk being assessed for each pet. Yearly blood-work starting at 8 years-of-age is recommended for dogs and cats to assess organ function.
What can I expect at the yearly exam?
We will complete a thorough exam of your pet – head-to-tail – to be sure they are healthy. Below we’ve outlined what we’re doing and why.
Bad breath can be an indication of dental or gum disease. We’ll check for tartar, inflammation and infections that can make your pet sick.
We’ll look for signs of cataracts, glaucoma, infection, jaundice, allergies and more.
Odor, redness, or swelling can indicate infection. Most ear infections in adults are caused by bacteria and yeast, though ear mites are a common cause in kittens. We’ll check for infection and other ear problems.
An exam of the abdomen checks for tumors, signs of pain and enlarged organs.
We’ll be checking body muscle tone, weight, and for enlarged lymph nodes that can be a sign of infection or disease
A check of your pets coat can reveal fleas, ticks, mites, skin infections and lumps and bumps.
We’ll check under the tail for anal gland issues, tapeworms and tumors.
Using the stethoscope, we’ll be listening for heart murmurs and irregular beats. We’ll also listen to the lungs to make sure they’re clear.
Just like us, pets feel their age. We’ll check the joints and spine for signs of pain and tenderness.