The Importance of Routine Pet Checkups
Wellness exams are a standard part of helping your furry companion maintain good long-term physical health.
These checkups are combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention and proper nutrition, these routine examinations include physical checkups to help set your pet up for lifelong health and happiness.
By bringing your dog or cat in for their routine checkup, the goal is to prevent health issues from developing in your pet, or catch them early, when they have the best chance of being treated.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical Exam
Your Stephenville vet will provide your dog or cat with a thorough physical checkup in order to get a complete picture of his or her overall health. Routine pet wellness exams performed at our animal clinic typically include the following elements:
General Condition
Your pet's general demeanour and physical condition offer insight into their overall health. How they stand and walk, if they appear alert, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.
Coat & Skin
During your pet's checkup, we will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of potential concerns, these may include excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss or shedding.
Face & Head
Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for signs of oral health concerns such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are essential to the health of your pet's heart. We'll test these to ensure normal function. The lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also examine the abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of pain or discomfort.
Review of Findings
At the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will take the time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements or ongoing care recommendations.
Puppy & Kitten Checkups
Puppies and kittens require proper medical attention during the first few weeks of their life to get off to a healthy start.
We'll give your new best friend a complete physical examination, appropriate immunizations, and deworming medication. We will also test for intestinal parasites. You'll be provided with a puppy or kitten 'kit' filled with educational material and samples to help you care for the newest member of your family.
Please never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, both at your appointments or following your visits.
Once your puppy or kitten has completed their routine checkup, you'll need to return periodically for his or her required booster shots.
More About Puppy & Kitten Care
Senior Pet Care
Due to the advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care in recent times, as well as newer therapies and better nutrition that is now offered, many senior pets are living longer than ever.
While this may be a welcome advancement, it also means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet surpasses middle age, regular examinations become increasingly crucial to ensure their continuing health and longevity.
In addition to the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will focus on your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.
Additional laboratory tests may be recommended for ageing pets to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and well-being.