The Importance of Preventive Care for Cats & Dogs
Wellness exams are a vital part of helping your pet maintain good health and the best possible quality of life.
When these evaluations are combined with vaccinations, parasite prevention, and proper nutrition, your beloved companion receives the care they need and deserve.
When you bring your dog or cat in for their routine checkup, we can prevent potentially serious health issues from developing or catch them early when they respond better to treatment. The sooner we can address any issues, the better the possible outcome.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
Your veterinarian will perform a full examination of your pet to get a picture of their overall health. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include the following:
General Condition
Your pet's behaviour and physical condition can provide valuable insight into their overall health. This includes the way they stand and walk, how alert they are, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size.
Coat & Skin
Your vet will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of issues during the physical exam. This will include looking for excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, abnormal hair loss, or shedding.
Face & Head
Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for unusual discharge or any other abnormalities. We will also take a look at the mouth for signs of oral health problems like plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure all have a great impact on your pet's health. We'll test these to make sure they're normal and then examine the lungs 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 doesn't show any signs of pain or discomfort.
Review of Findings
At the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will discuss any concerns related to your pet's overall health and have a discussion with you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens benefit greatly from professional veterinary care during their first few weeks of life. This will set the precedent for lifelong health.
We'll give your new furry friend a complete physical examination, any necessary vaccinations, and deworming medication. We will also test for intestinal parasites. We will also provide you with helpful information to guide you through caring for the newest member of your family.
Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about raising your new pet, both at your appointments or following your visits.
Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return for regular visits for their required booster shots and a quick exam.
Senior Pets
Recent advances in veterinary care, innovative therapies, and improved nutrition mean that senior pets are living longer than ever.
While this is great news for both pets and their families, it also means that you'll need to pay special attention to your pet's healthcare as they age. As your pet passes middle age, regular examinations become increasingly crucial to ensuring their continuing health and longevity.
In addition to the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will also keep a close eye on your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.
If more detailed information is needed about your senior pet's overall health, we may suggest that your pet have additional laboratory tests performed.
Vaccinations & Prevention
During your pet's routine checkup at our Wiggins animal hospital, the vet will also check whether your animal requires preventive care and ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date for the best possible protection.