HEAD-TO-TAIL ANNUAL CHECK-UPS

What will my veterinarian check during a general examination?

During a routine wellness examination, your veterinarian will ask about your dog's diet, exercise, health, and behavior, and perform a physical examination.

Based on the history and examination, the veterinarian will recommend preventive treatments such as vaccination, parasite control, nutrition, skin and coat care, joint health, weight management, or dental care, and discuss your dog's individual dietary and lifestyle needs.

What does my veterinarian check during a physical examination?

Our veterinarian will observe and inspect:

Your dog's walking and standing.
Alertness and general body condition (appropriate weight).
Muscle condition for any wasting.
Haircoat for dryness, oiliness, dandruff, or abnormal loss.
Skin for oiliness, dryness, lumps, or thickening.
Eyes for redness, discharge, tearing, and abnormalities.
Ears for discharge, thickening, or hair loss.
Nose and face for symmetry, discharge, and breathing issues.
Mouth and teeth for tartar, periodontal disease, broken teeth, and ulcers.

The veterinarian will auscultate:

The heart for abnormal rates, rhythms, or murmurs.
The lungs for breath sound variations.

The veterinarian will palpate:

The pulse while listening to the chest.
Lymph nodes for swelling or pain.
Legs for lameness or muscle issues.
The abdomen to assess organs for normalcy or discomfort.

Some parts of the examination may go unnoticed if no abnormalities are detected.

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Why might additional tests be recommended?

Additional tests are recommended because dogs and cats often hide signs of illness, making it difficult to detect diseases early. By the time symptoms appear, conditions may be advanced.

Veterinarians can identify early warning signs during physical exams, leading to further testing. Early detection allows for management or correction of issues before they cause irreversible damage, improving the chances of a successful outcome and often reducing costs. This is especially important for senior pets, which is why semi-annual examinations are advised.

"I came here after getting frustrated with my vet and am so glad I made the switch. He diagnosed my pup with a fraction of the cost and time that my previous place was going to put us through. We've been able to get in next day each time I called. He walked me through what he was doing each step of the exam. Diagnosed a heart murmur previously missed. Explained the blood work my other vet had run and not explained to me. And in detail explained the testing process.

The office people have been amazing as well. I called before hand and asked so many questions and they always called me back right away with answers from the vet. I've been so nervous through this that it was such a relief to not only get answers but to have it be so friendly and accepting.

The place is also pristine in terms of cleanliness. And their waiting room TV plays cute animal videos which is amazing for waiting with a toddler. Super efficiently run and never had to wait longer than two minutes or so." Amanda E.

HEAD-TO-TAIL ANNUAL CHECK-UPS

What will my veterinarian check during a general examination?

Is there anything I need to do

to prepare for my pet's visit?

What does my veterinarian check during a physical examination?

Why might additional tests be recommended?

HEAD-TO-TAIL ANNUAL CHECK-UPS

What will my veterinarian check during a general examination?

Is there anything I need to do

to prepare for my pet's visit?

What does my veterinarian check during a physical examination?

Why might additional tests be recommended?

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