A happy and healthy pet equates to a happy pet owner. That's why we at Valley Animal Hospital recommend that pet owners schedule regular pet wellness exams for their pets. In addition, we offer wellness exams for dogs and cats of all ages in Clifton, NJ, to help identify any underlying health issues and plan treatment before the problem escalates.
What Happens During the Pet Exam?
During a pet wellness exams, a veterinarian on our team may:
- Complete a physical pet exam from nose to tail
- Assess your pet's weight and body condition
- Check your pet's eyes, ears, and teeth
- Listen to your pet's heart and lungs
- Evaluate your pet's mobility and joints
- Update your pet on vaccinations
- Test your pet for parasites such as fleas, ticks, and worms
- Recommend a preventative care plan specific to your pet's needs
A veterinarian on our team may also recommend diagnostic testing such as blood work or x-rays to further assess your pet's health so that you can get answers about your pet's health quickly.
Why Are Wellness Exams Important?
Wellness exams are a chance to get to know your pet and establish a baseline for their healthy vitals. In addition, these regular check-ups allow you to catch any potential problems early and develop a treatment plan before the condition worsens.
An animal health specialist on our team may also offer various services such as weight management, dental care, and senior pet care. A vet on our team may also provide nutritional counseling to help you make the best decisions for your pet's diet and overall health.
How Often Should I Bring My Pet in for a Wellness Exam?
The frequency of your pet's wellness exams can depend on their age and overall health. For instance, a healthy kitten or puppy may need wellness exams more frequently until they are around a year old. After that, a vet on our team may recommend annual wellness exams for all adult cats and dogs.
In the same way, senior pets, those aged seven and up, may need to come in for semi-annual exams to monitor their health closely and catch any problems early. We may recommend more frequent visits if your pet has a chronic health condition.
Their lifestyle is the other determinant of how often to bring your pet in for a wellness exam. For example, pets who spend much time outdoors are more likely to be exposed to parasites and other illness-causing agents. Therefore, if your pet frequently goes on hikes, camping trips, or spends time in the backyard, we may recommend more frequent wellness exams.
Schedule Your Pet's Wellness Exam
At Valley Animal Hospital, our team is here to provide care for all our patients. We understand that your pet is important to you. We offer wellness exams for dogs and cats of all ages in Clifton, NJ. Call us at (973) 509-5225 to schedule an appointment.