Routine Health Checkups for Cats & Dogs of All Sizes
Whether your pet has fur, feathers or scales, regular wellness exams are critical to helping them maintain good long-term physical health.
When combined with regular vaccinations, preventive care and proper nutrition, bringing your pet in for routine checkups allows your veterinarian to prevent health issues from developing or catch them early, when they are most treatable.
Regular checkups also provide you an opportunity to discuss concerns or ask questions regarding your dog or cat's well-being. This proactive approach can save you both time and money by addressing potential health issues before they become more serious.
At your pet's wellness exam, your veterinarian can also provide advice on topics such as diet, exercise, and behaviour to ensure that they are living their happiest and healthiest life.
What to Expect During an Exam
During a routine wellness exam at Animals First Clinic, your veterinarian will give your companion a thorough physical checkup to get a comprehensive picture of their overall health.
Your veterinarian will also check whether your dog, cat or exotic pet is due for any routine vaccinations or parasite prevention.
Once your pet's examination has been completed, your veterinarian will take time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and discuss their nutritional requirements.
Routine checkups at our Grande Prairie veterinary clinic typically include an examination of each of the following elements of your pet's health:
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General Condition
Your pet's general demeanour and physical condition can provide vital clues to their overall health. How they stand and walk, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.
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Coat & Skin
During a routine exam, your veterinarian will examine your dog, cat, or exotic pet's skin and coat for signs of problems, including excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss.
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Face & Head
Your pet's wellness checkup will include an examination of their eyes, ears, and nose. Your veterinarian will look for any abnormalities or unusual discharge from any of these areas.
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Teeth & Mouth
We will check your companion's teeth and mouth for signs of oral health issues, such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease, to help determine if your pet requires dental care.
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Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are essential elements of your pet's heart health. We'll check these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will be listened to for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also feel the abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of pain.
Checkups for Puppies, Kittens & Young Exotic Pets
To help get your new companion off to a healthy start, proper medical attention is essential during the first few weeks of their life. Our team will perform a comprehensive physical examination of your new companion and provide immunizations and deworming medication as needed. We will also test for intestinal parasites and provide treatment if required.
Once your puppy, kitten, or exotic pet's first checkup is complete, you will need to bring them in periodically for their required booster shots.
Learn More About Puppies & Kittens Learn More About Exotic Pet Care
Checkups for Senior Pets
As pets enter their senior years, veterinary checkups play an increasingly important role in ensuring their continuing good health. During your senior pet's wellness exam, your veterinarian will be particularly watchful for signs of potential age-related conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, or decreased vision.
Additional diagnostic testing may be recommended for aging pets to provide your veterinarian with a more detailed diagnosis of your senior pet's condition and provide a treatment plan.