Healthy Pet Exams

Annual pet exams are vital for ensuring the well-being of your furry companions. These routine check-ups provide an opportunity for veterinarians to assess your pet's overall health, detect any potential issues early on, and tailor preventive care plans to suit their individual needs. Annual exams help keep your pets happy, healthy, and thriving for years to come. Don't wait until problems arise – schedule your pet's annual exam today and give them the gift of optimal health and wellness.

The Exam: Head to Tail

A lot happens during the exam! You might think the doctor is just holding and petting your animal, but he or she is thoroughly evaluating your pet, assessing all the major systems and organs inside, as well as watching their breathing, energy level, gait, and any other issues.

Be sure to let the doctor know if anything has seemed “off” or unusual for your pet.

When it’s time to work up close with your pet, the doctor will do so at your pet’s own level and, as much as possible, on your pet’s own terms. The doctor may sit on the floor next to your dog or hold your cat in his lap. For most pets, the exam can take place wherever you and your pet prefer.

The exam will include:

• looking for signs of upper respiratory disease or congestion.
• assessing the eyes and ears for evidence of infection or disease.
• evaluating the health of the teeth and gums.
• looking and feeling for any abnormal masses or growths on or under the skin.
• feeling the internal organs in search of any abnormalities.
• assessing the nails to make sure they appear healthy.
• listening to the heart for evidence of abnormal rhythm or other heart diseases.
• listening to the lungs for evidence of concerns like pneumonia or a more chronic condition like asthma.
• weighing your cat or small dog.
  assessing the bones and joints, with particular attention on older animals for signs of arthritis.

The physical exam may highlight some areas in need of further evaluation. The doctor can initiate these tests at the appointment, including taking blood and urine samples, monitoring blood pressure, or other diagnostics as needed.