At Animal General we use routine exams to focus on preventative care for your pet. These vet checkups allow us to ensure that your beloved pet is in good health.
The Importance of Pet Preventive Care
Wellness exams are key to helping your pet maintain good health over the course of their life.
When paired with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention and proper nutrition, regularly scheduled routine exams are the best way to give your pet their best chance a good health for life.
When you bring your dog or cat to us for their check up, we can prevent health issues from arising in the first place, or catch them at early stages when they are most treatable.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
One of your vets will give your pet a throughout physical examination in order to get a sense of their general health. One of these exams includes the following:
General Condition
Your pet's general behavior, demeanor and physical condition can all be indicators of their overall health. The way the walk, their level of alertness, how they stand and their weight in relation to their size can all give your vet information about their health.
Coat & Skin
We will check your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of health issues. These can include lumps and bumps, dandruff, abnormal hair loss and excessive oiliness or dryness.
Face & Head
Your pet's ears, nose and eyes will all be examined carefully for discharge or other abnormalities. We will also check their mouth for symptoms of oral health issues such as tooth decay or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Your pet's heart rate and rhythm, their pulse and their blood pressure are all good indicators of their heart health. We will test all of these to ensure they are normal as well as their lungs for signs of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also examine the abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of discomfort.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens need veterinary attention within their first few weeks of life in order to get off the a healthy start.
We will give your kitten or puppy a complete checkup, deworming medicine and all the appropriate immunizations. We will also test them for internal parasites. You will be give a puppy or kitten kit filled with educational material and sampled to help you take care of your newest family member.
Please never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, both at your appointments or following your visits.
Once your pet's initial check up is complete, you'll return periodically for his or her required booster shots.
Checkups for Senior Dogs & Cats
Advancements in veterinary knowledge and pet nutrition mean that senior pets are living longer now than they even have before.
As your pet grows and ages, routine vet check ups become increasingly important to their continued good health and well being.
In addition to the routine exams we perform on all adult pets, senior pets get extra attention as we keep an eye out for age related conditions like decreased vision and arthritis. Additional laboratory tests will also provide information about your pet's overall health.
Vaccinations & Prevention
Over the course of your pet's check up, our vets will also check to make sure they receive any preventative care they require, from vaccinations to parasite prevention.
Quality Veterinary Care You Can Rely On
Our experienced vets are passionate about improving the health of pets from across Farmington Valley. Get in touch today to request an appointment.