What Your Vet Does During a Routine Checkup
During a routine checkup, your vet will perform a medical examination of your pet even if they appear healthy. Your pet doesn't necessarily have to be sick to qualify for a routine checkup.
The wellness examination is an integral part of pet care that you should never overlook. But what does the examination involve? Read on to discover more about routine vet checkups.
Conduct a Pet Physical Examination
The vet will begin by reviewing your pet's medical history. They will ask you about any specific concerns you might have about your pet's well-being. They might also inquire about your pet's behavior, diet, bowel movement, and other important aspects of their lifestyle.
The vet will then conduct a physical checkup of your pet which will include the following:
- Noting your pet's weight, gait and stance
- Observe your pet's ears for signs of bacterial infection, wax build-up, ear mites, or polyps
- Listen to your pet's lungs and heart
- Assess your pet's teeth for any indicators of decay or periodontal disease.
These steps help your vet keep tabs on your pet's health and identify any issues early before they become a serious problem.
Administer the Latest Pet Vaccines
During routine checkups, your vet will also confirm whether your pet is up to date with their vaccinations. Your pet needs to be vaccinated to protect them from contagious diseases, new strains of bacteria, and viruses.
During your visit, your vet will ensure your pet is immunized against the following potentially fatal conditions:
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Lyme disease
- Feline leukemia
Vaccination will not only protect your pet from disease but will also prevent the spread of contagious infections to you or any other person living in your home.
Protect Your Pet from Parasites
Parasites can be deadly to pets. Ticks and mosquitoes are especially dangerous since they harbor harmful pathogens that enter your pet's body. These pathogens cause disease and other harmful health complications.
Parasite prevention will protect your pet from the following conditions:
- Hookworms
- Fleas
- Whipworm
- Tapeworms
Your vet might also ask for a fresh sample of your pet's droppings or urine. The samples are tested to determine if any parasites are present. The findings will be a good clue on your pet's overall health condition.
Remember that some parasitic infections may not show any obvious symptoms until it's too late. A local vet will detect such conditions and avoid any potential complications that could affect your pet. Contact services like Pittsburgh Spay & Vaccination Clinic to learn more.
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