Why Your Pet Needs an Annual Checkup
We recommend every pet have a physical at least once a year. There are many things that we pack into a yearly exam that go way beyond a rabies shot! It’s about keeping your pet happy, healthy and most importantly, making sure you have as many wonderful years together as possible.
Here are some of the reasons you should consider bringing your pet in for a yearly checkup:
To “check under the hood” - The most important part of your pet’s yearly visit is their physical exam. Your vet will ask you questions about your pet’s eating and drinking, energy level, bathroom habits, and more. Meanwhile, they will check your pet over from nose to tail. Any changes or abnormalities can give clues about your pet’s health. Early detection of disease can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.
To screen for common problems - Your vet may suggest routine monitoring tests such as stool exams for parasites or blood and urine tests for early detection of diseases. If your pet takes medication, there may also be particular monitoring tests needed to make sure the treatment is going well. Diagnostic testing can be an invaluable tool in maintaining good health.
To monitor your pet’s weight - Changes in weight are an important factor in assessing health. Just like with people, obesity can lead to many problems such as joint and back pain, diabetes, or heart disease. Realizing an upward trend in weight and correcting it early can mean extra years for you and your pet to have together. On the other hand, a pet decreasing in weight can be a sign of various problems that could already be in progress, including dental disease, kidney problems, heart conditions, digestion issues, or even cancer. Realizing your pet’s weight has changed can help ensure they stay healthy and happy for as long as possible.
To discuss preventative medicine - Of course, many people think of their pet’s check up as “time for shots” and, indeed, routine vaccinations for rabies and other preventable infections is extremely important. You and your vet can discuss, based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors, what vaccines are needed. Many of these vaccines only need to be given every few years, so your vet will keep track of which ones are due. There are other things that are important to prevent as well: parasites such as fleas, ticks, intestinal worms and heartworms are easily kept away with medications. You and your vet can decide which ones your pet needs, and when. Veterinarians are best qualified to recommend preventative medicine options.
To discuss regular care and maintenance - Your vet can also help advise you about things like nutrition, grooming, bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, oral hygiene, exercise, and training, as well as answer any other pet-related questions you may have. Veterinarians are a great source of information for all things pet-related.
