Annual Wellness Exam
An annual wellness exam gives the veterinarian a chance to evaluate your pet's overall health and detect problems before they turn into serious illnesses. The veterinarian must rely on this exam and your observations of your pet in order to truly determine the health of your pet. As a part of the wellness exam, routine blood work, urinalysis, and other tests are generally recommended for all pets in their senior years.
It is essential that you take your pet to the veterinarian at least once a year and even more frequently as your pet gets older. Because so much can change with your pet's physical health in a short amount of time, you cannot afford to have your pet miss even one exam.
During the exam, your veterinarian will ask several questions about your pet's health history. Be sure to mention any unusual behavior including:
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Excessive urination
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Excessive drinking of water
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Excessive panting
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Eating more than usual
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Excessive scratching
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Coughing
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Weight gain
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Weight loss
Your veterinarian will also talk about fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal parasites at some point in the exam. He or she will also note your pet's temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and body weight. Your pet's gums, teeth, tongue and palate will be checked for tarter buildup. Your veterinarian will use a stethoscope to listen to your pet's heart and lungs. The early signs of heart disease are often recognized during a routine health exam. The reproductive system, skin and abdomen will be examined to check for any irregularities. If any abnormalities are found during this exam, your veterinarian will recommend additional tests to diagnose or confirm a health problem.
Do not underestimate the importance of your pet's annual exam. Taking your pet to the veterinarian once a year or more means you are helping your pet live a longer and healthier life.