If your dog or cat is happy, active and eating well, it’s tempting to assume they’re completely healthy. But the truth is many health problems develop slowly and exhibit very few, if any, noticeable indications in their early stages. This is why planning a regular pet wellness check is one of the best things you can do to safeguard your pet’s long-term health.
Routine trips to the vet are about much more than just immunisations. A full pet check up provides your veterinarian with the opportunity to identify potential health problems early and help your pet enjoy a longer, healthier and happier life.
Importance of Wellness Checks
Pets mature much more rapidly than humans do. A year between vet appointments might be equivalent to many years of ageing for your dog or cat, so a lot can happen in a relatively short period of time.
Wellness checks on a regular basis give your veterinarian a good picture of what is normal for your pet, making it much simpler to catch tiny variations that could be signs of an underlying health problem. Catching problems early often means easier treatment, reduced vet fees and a better outcome.
Whether you have a playful puppy, an active adult dog, a curious kitten or a geriatric cat, preventative healthcare is crucial at every stage of life.
What to Expect During a Pet Wellness Check
A pet wellness check is a comprehensive review of your pet’s general health. During the session, your veterinarian will often review the following:
- Body condition score and weight
- Eyes, ears, mouth and nose
- Teeth and gums
- Lung and heart function
- Skin and coat health
- Mobility and joints
- The abdomen and internal organs
- Any odd changes, lumps or bumps
Your vet will also talk about your pet’s nutrition, exercise regime, temperament, parasite control and any problems you have seen at home.
They may also offer screening tests, such as blood testing or urine analysis, depending on your pet’s age, breed or medical history, to help detect health problems before symptoms occur.
Catch Problems Before They Get Out of Hand
One of the major benefits of regular vet visits is catching health concerns before they become noticeable.
Some common diseases that might be detected during a normal vet checkup Northern Beaches include:
- Dental disease
- Arthritis
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Thyroid problems
- Obesity
- Skin allergies
- Cancer in its early stages
Many of these illnesses are far more treatable if caught early.
Reduce Expenses With Preventive Care
Some pet owners delay the vet visit because their pet appears to be perfectly healthy or because they are concerned about the cost. But preventive medicine is almost usually much less expensive than the treatment of a major illness.
A routine pet health check can spot a little problem that can be treated immediately before it becomes a big problem that needs surgery, hospitalisation or continual medication.
You may end up with considerably greater vet expenses later if you spend money on your pet’s health now.
Wellness Checks for All Walks of Life
Different ages require different healthcare for every pet.
Puppies and kittens need to be seen regularly for growth checks, vaccines, parasite prevention and general development.
Adult pets need annual wellness exams to help keep them healthy and to spot any signs of disease early.
Wellness exams every six months can be beneficial for senior pets, as diseases associated with ageing can progress more rapidly. Routine checkups provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to fine-tune treatment regimens and help ensure your pet’s quality of life.
Helping Your Pet Live Longer, More Healthily
Regular veterinary treatment is not only for sick pets, but also for keeping healthy pets healthy.
A professional pet health check Northern Beaches provides your vet with the opportunity to monitor your pet’s health, answer your questions and offer customised recommendations on nutrition, exercise, preventative care and lifestyle.
We are proud of the experienced team at Two by Two Veterinary Hospital and their commitment to compassionate, customised care for pets of all ages. Whether it’s your companion’s very first visit or their annual pet wellness check, we’re here to help them enjoy many happy, healthy years by your side.