We treat all household pets. Pets, on average, age five to eight times faster than humans. By age two, most pets have already reached adulthood. At age four, many are entering middle age. By age seven, many dogs, particularly larger breeds, are entering their senior years.
It is important and we recommend, that your pet has a yearly health check when they come in for their booster vaccinations. A vet’s expertise may identify problems that are not always visible to you. Because pets age so rapidly compared to people, major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. The risk of cancer, diabetes, obesity, arthritis, heart disease and other serious conditions all increase with age.
Todays pets are living longer than ever. Chances are that many may experience a potentially serious illness during their lifetime. Annual health checks can help your veterinarian diagnose, treat or even prevent problems before they become life-threatening. They’re also a great opportunity to ask us about nutrition, behaviour or any other issues.
At a health check, the vet will examine the animal thoroughly. The ears and skin are examined to make sure that there are no infections. The eyes are checked for any abnormalities. The teeth are checked for gingivitis or decay and a dental (eg scale and polish or extractions) may be advised. Lymph nodes are felt all over the body as enlarged ones can indicate a problem. The chest is listened to with a stethoscope to detect any heart murmurs or unusual lung sounds. The tummy is palpated to see if anything is painful or if any organs feel abnormal. The whole animal is checked for any lumps in the skin as any suspicious masses will need to be examined more closely and may need to be removed before they cause a major problem.
Call us today to book a health check for your pet with one of our vets.
HEALTH CHECK LIST
The most important annual health screenings for dogs and cats:
Adult dogs and cats :
- Parasite check and control
- Health check
- Heart check
- Dental inspection
Additional exams for senior pets
- Osteoarthritis check and management
- Kidney disease blood screen
- Thyroid check
- Blood pressure check
Many older pets are on prescription medication for ailments such as arthritis or a poorly heart. For your vet to be able to continue treatment on a regular basis, your vet may recommend more regular check-ups due to your pets condition, and the animal must have a prescription check at least every 6 months. The vet can then assess the pet’s progress and make a judgement on whether to change the type or dose of medication.
Things to look out for:
Increased weight or even weight loss without a change in diet. This could be a sign of an underlying disease.
A change of appetite is important. If your pet suddenly becomes very hungry, this is just as much a vital sign of a problem as not eating. Change in appetite or fussiness to eat certain foods versus others can also be a sign.
Water intake and urine output is very important. There are many diseases/illnesses that can cause your pet to drink more and possibly urinate more or more frequently.
Any lumps or bumps. It is important to have these assessed as soon as possible. Not all lumps are benign and there is no rule to a lump being safe if it is small or mobile or soft. Always play it safe and have the vet look at it.
A change in your animal’s behaviour can be significant and early signs of an underlying problem, so if in doubt - get it checked out.
If your pet is showing any changes, then please contact us and we will be able to advise you on how we can help, or whether you need to be seen.
Our staff are trained to offer you advice on the day to day care of your pet, and answer any questions or help with any concerns you may have, no matter how small.
A lot of dogs and cats require on-going medications for various conditions and ailments. It is important to have regular check ups when on medications for a prolonged period of time, so we are sure they are working, you are managing to give them and they are still in your pet's best interests.
Legally, your pet must have been seen by a vet for a health check within the last six months for us to prescribe medications that are prescription only. If this is not the case, we are happy to provide a check up. If you need to discuss your pet's medications please give us a call.