The Importance of Preventive Care for Pets
Routine wellness exams are essential when it comes to helping your pet maintain good long-term physical health.
Combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention and proper nutrition, routine exams give your pet the best chance at lifelong well-being.
When you bring your cat or dog in for a routine checkup we will give them a thorough physical examination, looking for any potential health issues.
We will also discuss their nutritional requirements with you to ensure they are getting the proper nutrients for their age, size, and lifestyle.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
Your Madison vet will give your dog or cat a thorough physical checkup in order to get a complete picture of his or her overall health. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include the following elements:
General Condition
Your pet's general demeanor and physical condition can provide clues to their overall health. How they stand and walk, their level of alertness, 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 problems, including 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 symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are vitally important to your pet's heart health. We'll test these to ensure they're normal. 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 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.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens need proper medical attention in their first few months of life to get off to a healthy start.
We'll give your new best friend a complete physical examination, the appropriate immunizations, and deworming medication. We will also test for intestinal parasites.
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's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for their required booster shots.
Seniors
With recent advances in veterinary medicine, newer therapies, and better pet nutrition, senior pets are enjoying longer lifespans than ever before.
While this is terrific news for pets and their owners, it 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 give special attention to your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.
We may recommend additional lab tests for your aging pet to get more detailed information about their internal health.
Vaccinations & Prevention
During your pet's veterinary checkup at Best Friends Animal Hospital, your vet will let you know if your pet is due for any routine vaccinations or parasite prevention measures.
New Patients Welcome
Best Friends Animal Hospital is always accepting new patients. Our experienced veterinary team is passionate about the health and comfort of companion animals. Get in touch today to learn about the difference our expertise makes.