Wellness Exams

Like humans, pets need ongoing wellness care to ensure a long and healthy life. For the first years of life, we suggest that puppies and kittens be seen at least twice a year. For adult animals, an annual exam should suffice, twice a year for senior pets or for those with particular risk factors. We can help you to develop an individualized checkup schedule that will take all of your pet's health factors into account. The information we gather at each exam becomes part of your pet's medical history and can be critical if an emergency or sudden illness arises.

Our wellness visits include assessment of your pet's dental health, weight and body condition, and aging changes in addition to evaluation of all major body systems. As part of an annual comprehensive wellness physical exam, we check the following parameters in detail:

• Weight
• Temperature
• Body condition
• Coat and skin quality
• Cardiovascular function
• Respiratory function
• Teeth and gum condition
• Eyes, Ears, Nose, Throat
• Rectal/anal sac condition
• Abdominal palpation to detect abnormal intestine, kidney, liver or spleen size, as well as detect large tumors from these organs
• Lymphatic system
• Basic neurological system
• Musculoskeletal system

Another important area to evaluate is your pet's behavior, because that is his main way to communicate with you. Your dog can't say, "My tooth hurts when I eat!", but he will "tell" you by eating differently, refusing food or exhibiting abnormal behavior. The same is true, in general terms, with nearly every unwanted condition experienced in the pet world. By paying attention to the specifics of pet behavior, we can uncover problems and potential health risk factors.

We will review your pet's immunization schedule and administer any vaccinations needed. We check, treat and prevent intestinal parasites, heartworm, and fleas and ticks. We can schedule follow-up grooming sessions to administer flea and tick protection if necessary.

We conduct the blood and urine screening tests recommended at different life stages to screen for diseases (Junior Wellness Screen, Mature Animal Screens, Senior Screens and Geriatric Profiles).

Wellness screens are promoted year-round, but are offered at a discount in April and October.

If your pet has a health issue that requires a specialist, we will help you find one. Our primary goal, always, is the health of your pet; we will work with you in numerous ways to achieve this.

By maintaining your commitment to these appointments, we can work with you to prevent or minimize the negative effects of many health issues on your pet.