A yearly check over is vitally important to keep your pet in ‘tip-top’ condition.
The veterinarian will thoroughly examine your pet from head to tail, but it is also an important time to discuss any health concerns you may have.
Things you may want to bring to the veterinarian’s attention are:
- Any new lumps or bumps
- Skin conditions e.g., itchiness, hair loss or a smelly, greasy or flaky coat
- Vision problems
- Bad breath
- Weight issues
- Changed toileting habits e.g., soft faeces, constipation or increased urinations
- Vomiting
- Coughing or sneezing
- Changed appetite or problems chewing their food
- Reluctance to exercise or tiring quickly on walks
- Shaking head or scratching ears
- Rubbing their bottom along the ground (scooting)
- Limping or having trouble getting up after resting
- Behaviour problems
- If your pet is not microchipped, or not currently wormed, vaccinated or on regular heartworm prevention
The veterinarian will then examine your pet by:
- Checking their eyes and ears
- Looking inside their mouth at the teeth, gums, tongue and tonsils
- Checking the size of the lymph nodes over their entire body
- Looking at the skin and coat and checking for evidence of fleas
- Feeling the abdominal cavity to see if there is any pain or internal organ enlargement
- Listening to the heart and lungs
- Feeling any sore joints
- And finally….taking their temperature
Any problems will be discussed, and treatments or remedies recommended.
