The Importance of Wellness
Exams
Most of us see our doctors
once a year. We get a good physical
exam, check out our weight ( ugh! ), our vital signs, and age appropriate lab
work. We know this is necessary for our
overall health. We want to be sure to catch
any illness or disorder early so it can be treated. Makes complete sense right? So doesn’t it make sense that a yearly
wellness exam is just as important for your pets?
Your pet’s “annual visit” is
about so much more than vaccines. During
a physical exam your veterinarian can find skin issues, growths, weight
changes, and dental disease~ things that can easily go undetected at home. Finding illnesses in the early stages allows
for treatment to begin sooner often saving lives and money.
Dental disease is probably
the most common abnormality diagnosed during a physical exam. 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have periodontal
disease by the age of 3. If left
untreated, it can decrease life expectancy up to 20%.
While the physical exam
allows us to see the outside of your pet, annual lab work gives us a “picture”
of the inside. This is especially
important for our senior pets. Even the
simplest thing like a little weight loss can indicate illness. Age appropriate lab work and a urinalysis allows
your veterinarian to ensure the kidneys, liver, thyroid, and heart, and other
internal organs are functioning as they should.
Since our pets can’t talk and tell us when something is wrong, yearly
lab work can save us time and money in the long run.
Checking for internal and
external parasites yearly is essential. Internal parasites are fairly common and can
be contracted anywhere~dog parks, while out on a walk, the beach, and even by
drinking contaminated water. Testing
your pet annually and treating as needed will keep your pet healthy and
eliminate the risk of your family members from being infected as well. Heartworms affect more than just the heart
and are easily prevented. Annual testing
is recommended by the AVMA and is done with a simple blood draw. We recommend Proheart 6, a twice yearly
injection, for year-round prevention for your companion.
This is also the perfect
time to ask any questions, discuss diet, behavioral issues, flea control, or
anything that comes to mind.
Wellness
exams are one of the most important
things we can do for our pets to help ensure a longer, healthier, life.
