PHYSICAL Examination
Regular examinations are an important part of maintaining your
pet's health. Many conditions have subtle
signs that can be detected by a veterinarian during the
examination. Early detection greatly aids timely
treatment. We recommend a complete physical examination for all newly
acquired pets, annually for healthy dogs and cats under seven years of age,
and every 6 months for healthy older pets.
dental
examination
dental diseases,
including tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease,
are very common in dogs and cats. Your
veterinarian will examine your pet's teeth and gums, and discuss
any needed preventive care or treatment.
Nutrition consultation
With so many types of foods available, knowing what to
feed your pet can be a complex question. Also, many pets are above or below
their ideal body weight. A wellness examination will help you assess your pet's body
condition and help you select the most healthy diet.
Heartworm testing and prevention
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm that is transmitted by
mosquitoes. The worms grow to large size within the heart and can cause fatal
illness. We recommend annual testing and monthly preventative for all dogs. For further information, please visit the
American Heartworm Society web
site.
Intestinal parasite testing and prevention
Dogs and cats are vulnerable to a number of intestinal parasites, including
both worms and microscopic parasites such as giardia. Many of these
parasites are transmissible to humans. Regular fecal testing and treatment for
parasites helps protect your pet and family's health. For further information please
visit the
Companion Animal Parasite Council
web site.
FLEA & tick PREVENTION
Fleas and ticks are numerous in our area all
year round; yet gone are the days of toxic flea bombs and dreaded shampoos and sprays. A wide array of highly effective,
safe, and convenient flea and tick products are now available.
During your wellness visit, your veterinarian will help you
select a product that best meets the needs of your pet.
Spay/neuter consultation
For most dogs and cats, spaying or neutering is an important
part of maintaining health. For intact pets, discussing the medical and
behavioral benefits of these procedures are part of the wellness
visit.
Vaccination
Vaccinations prevent infectious diseases. During the wellness
visit, your veterinarian will discuss which vaccines are
recommended for your pet and update boosters that are due.
Microchip
Implantation
A
microchip is the best way to ensure recovery of your pet if he
or she is ever lost. The microchip is the size of a grain of
rice and is placed under the skin with a needle. The chip number
is read by shelters and veterinary hospitals and the owner is
alerted through a 24 hour service. For more information about
the chips we use, please visit the
AVID web site.
