The Importance of Cat & Dog Checkups
Wellness examinations are essential for your pet's long-term physical health.
Combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention, and proper nutrition, these routine examinations include regular physical checkups to give your pet the best chance at excellent lifelong health.
When you bring your dog or cat in for a routine checkup, we can either prevent health problems from developing or catch them early, when they are most treatable.
What to Expect During Vet Checkup at New Hope Animal Hospital
Your Dallas veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination of your dog or cat in order to obtain an accurate picture of his or her overall health. At our animal clinic, routine wellness exams include the following components:
General Condition
The general demeanor and physical condition of your pet can reveal information about their overall health. The way they stand and walk, how alert they are, and whether or not they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.
Coat & Skin
During your pet's checkup, we will look for signs of problems such as excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss or shedding.
Face & Head
Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure all play a critical role in your pet's cardiovascular health. We'll verify that these are normal. After that, the lungs will be examined for signs of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be examined for pain or swelling, and the abdomen will be examined to ensure that the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and your pet is not in pain.
Review of Findings
Your veterinarian will take the time at the end of your pet's routine wellness exam to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and to inform you about your dog or cat's nutritional needs.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens require proper medical care in their first few weeks of life to ensure a healthy start.
We'll give your new best friend a thorough physical examination, as well as the necessary immunizations and deworming medication. We will also look for parasites in the intestine. You will be given a puppy or kitten 'kit' containing educational materials and samples to assist you in caring for the newest member of your family.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns about caring for your new pet, either during or after your appointments.
Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for his or her required booster shots.
Seniors
Senior pets are living longer than ever thanks to recent advancements in veterinary medical knowledge and care, as well as newer therapies and improved nutrition.
While this is fantastic news for pets and owners alike, it does mean that special attention must be paid to your pet's routine healthcare as they age.
Regular examinations become increasingly important as your pet reaches middle age and beyond to ensure their continued health and longevity.
Along with the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will pay particular attention to your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.
Additional laboratory tests may be recommended for senior pets in order to obtain more detailed information about their overall health and well-being.
Vaccinations & Prevention in Dallas
During your pet's veterinary checkup at our Dallas animal hospital, the vet will also check whether your animal requires preventive care, or if they are due for any routine vaccinations.
