Owners believe that they basically need to bring their adorable pets to the veterinary clinic when they detect something odd with their fur babies. However, this is a typical mistaken belief that needs to be disproved; your pet requires an annual regular wellness health check. We want to let you know that this is essential and must be done to your pets to keep them healthy. Listed below is everything you need to learn about pet wellness checkups.
What is a Pet Wellness Checkup?
A wellness checkup is a great approach to keep your pet in excellent and healthy condition. It is a routine medical examination for any pet. Our fur-babies are genetically wired to conceal any health problem. They can not speak; thus, they can not articulate their suffering. Routine wellness checks can directly address preventable diseases like ear infections, dental diseases, and weight problems. Also, early screenings for potential issues that can be life-threatening and may need veterinary surgery. These conditions include arthritis, diabetes, and kidney problems which can be ruled out during examination.
What Happens During A Wellness Checkup?
The veterinarian will first interview the pet owner, inquiring about your observations involving their overall health. The possible inquiries can pertain to various topics. These are not limited to your pet’s history, general health, eating patterns, and other behaviors that may indicate an illness or disease. Afterwhich, the veterinarian will physically evaluate your pet.
Here’s a list of the things that the veterinarian will check into during the physical check:
- They are quiet, inactive, and depressed-looking to indicate any ongoing illness or disease.
- If they are way too fat or too thin, the weight accounts for obesity or anorexia.
- The ears to see if there is an enlargement of the ear canal due to various infections.
- The heart and lungs to examine irregularities in heart rate and breathing patterns.
- Their ability to walk and stand is normal to check for muscle or bone development issues.
- The eyes to inspect for cloudiness, lumps or bumps, and unusual liquid discharge such as gunk and tears.
- The condition of their coat or fur; if it is dry, there is excessive shedding and discharge of oil, with an immense extent of dandruff, and excessive hair loss.
- The state of their gums, teeth, and mouth to check for tartar and plaque buildup can lead to a myriad of dental complications. You can always visit their dental page for more information.
How Often Should A Wellness Exam Be Performed?
It is a popular fact that pets age faster compared to human beings. The frequency and period of a pet wellness exam would rely on their current age and health status. It is advised to set up a checkup every month for young pets. While for the middle-aged and senior dogs, a semi-annual examination needs to be conducted. Finally, sick pets must visit a veterinarian more frequently than usual. If you spot something strange with your pets, go now and visit a veterinarian.
How to Prepare For A Wellness Checkup
Getting ready for a wellness checkup is as important as the exam itself. A responsible pet owner must get ready for a veterinary visit to have a smooth flow throughout the process. Below are the things you need to consider to have a successful wellness visit.
- Keep your pet’s diet and exercise routines in mind.
- Closely keep an eye on their behavior a few days before the visit.
- Arrange your pet’s documents in a folder so you can readily present their records.
- Produce a checklist of questions you intend to ask the veterinarian regarding your personal observations concerning your pet.
