Healthy pets are generally happier, more energetic, and more loving toward their family. You can help your pet live a longer, healthier life by partnering with a local animal hospital for his care. At Branch's Veterinary Clinic of Tifton, we cater to the pet care needs of pet owners in Tifton by providing quality preventive and routine medical care. Pet wellness exams play an important role in that care.
What to Expect from a Wellness Exam
Pet wellness exams are generally scheduled annually, except for baby pets and senior pets which may need more frequent visits. Baby pets should be seen more often so we can take stock of their growth and development. Senior pets may need semi-annual wellness exams to monitor their delicate health.
During the wellness exam, your veterinarian will discuss any problems you’re having with your pet’s health, diet, exercise, or behavior and answer any questions you may have concerning his care. We’ll weigh your pet, check his vital signs, and put this information in his records for future reference. Then we will conduct a physical exam.
Testing
A wellness exam involves a visual inspection of your pet including eyes, nose, ears, face, mouth, and teeth to detect signs of sickness or abnormalities. We’ll examine your pet’s fur, skin, and joints and listen to his heart and lungs. We’ll observe how your pet stands, walks, and reacts to touch and voice commands.
If your pet shows signs of dental issues, we may recommend a complete pet dental exam or cleaning at a later date. Pet dental care is an essential aspect of your pet’s overall health. Vaccinations are also important to your pet’s long-term health. Vaccinations can be updated, if necessary, during a wellness exam.
Your pet’s wellness exam may also include diagnostics in the form of x-rays or ultrasound and blood work to uncover hidden internal medical issues. As pets can’t verbalize how they feel, these tests are essential to determining the state of your pet’s health.
The Importance of Pet Wellness Exams
Through routine wellness care, your veterinarian can uncover signs of health problems early, when they’re more treatable. Some problems can be prevented altogether by changing your pet’s diet or exercise or lifestyle. Routine visits also give your vet a chance to update your pet’s vaccines or medications that provide year-round protection against fleas, ticks, and worms. Wellness visits can help your furry friend avoid developing health problems that cause pain now and in the future.
See Our Veterinarians for Pet Wellness Care in Tifton, GA
To schedule a pet wellness exam for your dog or cat, contact Branch's Veterinary Clinic of Tifton. Call our team today at (229) 382-6055 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
