Veterinary examinations are an essential part of preventative medicine. In addition to ensuring the health of your pet, vet check-ups are a great time to ask our specialists any questions you may have. They are also necessary for following up on your pet’s vaccinations or on de-worming or parasite treatments.
What happens during a checkup?
- Your vet will feel your pet’s abdomen to assess the internal organs.
- They examine the mouth and teeth to determine whether your pet would need teeth cleaning or extractions.
- They listen to your pet’s heart to check for a heart murmur or arrhythmia.
- They listen closely to the lungs for abnormalities.
- They evaluate the range of motion for signs of arthritis in joints or hip dysplasia.
- The lymph nodes are examined for inflammation or infection.
- A dermatological evaluation is also important when diagnosing allergies, infections or masses.
- Finally, your vet will check your pet’s eating habits and weight to make sure it stays within a healthy range.
The checkup not only ensures that your pet is in good health, it also gives you a chance to discuss any concerns you may have. That said, you can always contact us at any time if you have questions about your pet’s health.