Why It Is Important to Bring Your Pet in for Regular Check-Ups at the Vet

regular pet check-ups

Every pet owner wants their furry companion to live a long, full, and healthy life. Regular pet checkups at the vet are a crucial part of safeguarding the health status of your pet. Don’t just visit the vet when you suspect something is wrong with your pet. It’s vital to schedule an appointment with your vet at least once a year for a full physical so that any diseases can be detected long before the condition has a chance to progress. Routine checkups allow for early detection and intervention, which can help save your pet’s life.

So, what happens at a routine checkup?

What Does a Vet Do During a Routine Checkup?

It helps to think of regular pet checkups as wellness exams that aim to enhance long-term health and quality of life. The first thing the vet will do is review your pet’s medical history and ask about any health or well-being concerns you might have.

Following this, the vet will conduct a physical exam to look for abnormal indicators of health. Here’s what your vet is checking for when examining your pet:

  • Take vital signs, including temperature, respiration rate, and pulse. Any significant change in any of the vital signs could indicate an underlying health problem.
  • An eye examination for signs of excessive tearing, unusual discharge, cloudiness, and other eye health issues. Eye issues are especially common in flat-faced dog breeds, hence why it’s important to ask your vet about health conditions to look out for.
  • An examination of the ears is carried out to check for ear infections, parasites, and even wax build-up. Cats often present with ear mites, while dogs tend to get yeast or bacterial infections.
  • Checking your pet’s coat and skin for abnormal hair loss, skin infections, or even dandruff. They’ll also look for parasites in skin folds.
  •  Dental health affects your pet’s entire body. An infection in the mouth or teeth can spread to the heart, kidneys, and other vital organs, creating a life-threatening situation. That’s why your vet will look for signs of gingivitis, loose teeth, or oral masses.
  • The vet will also check your pet’s weight, stance, and gait. Gait changes or muscle loss could indicate a problem with the muscles, joints, or bones. These problems can usually be remedied when caught early enough.

In short, your vet will examine your pet from snout to tail to ensure that they’re in optimal health. Keep note of any unusual behavioral changes, as they may also be an indication of poor health. It’s important to note that some pets – especially cats – are excellent at hiding signs of illness, so you may not always note behavioral changes.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Veterinarian Today

From bloodwork to urinalyses and fecal examination, regular pet checkups are full physical exams aimed at ensuring that your pet is in optimal health. These checkups are an important part of keeping your pet healthy and happy. Make sure to see your vet at least once or twice a year for a routine physical exam.