Why We Recommend Annual Wellness Exams for Dogs and Cats
Routine wellness exams allow for the early detection of illness in pets. This is the key to preventing serious illness later on, and helping your companion live a longer, healthier life. In the long run, their care becomes less costly for them and for you!
What to Expect During Your Pet’s Annual Exam Here in Norwood Park
We provide custom, comprehensive wellness programs for every pet to meet their short- and long-term health needs.
The services generally included in these programs are as follows:
- Annual physical examination
- Dental exam
- Deworming (typically provided for puppies and kittens)
- Screening for ticks, fleas, heartworms, and other parasites
- Parasite prevention
- Tailored vaccines
Another important aspect of the wellness exam is the conversation you have with your vet. We want you to come to us with all kinds of questions, so we can offer our guidance and help you make the best choices for your pet’s care. All dogs and cats have individual needs based on their age, breed, size, lifestyle, and health history, and thus deserve highly individualized treatment.
Senior Pet Exams
Dogs and cats age much faster than humans, but they also tend to experience many of the same issues that we do when we get old. Arthritis, hearing and vision loss, fatty tumors, heart failure, and diabetes are all problems that our pets can face, too. To keep these issues minimal when your companion reaches their golden years, it’s important that they see their veterinarian biannually for a checkup that includes:
- A comprehensive physical exam
- Blood testing
- Urinalysis
Senior dogs and cats can experience changes in their health within a few months, which is why we recommend biannual exams. We also advise that you contact us if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Rapid breathing/panting
- Frequent vomiting/diarrhea
- Acting listless
- Sleeping more often than normal
- Difficulty standing and walking
- Increased water intake
- Urinating excessively
- Bad breath
Puppy and Kitten Care
To help your new puppy or kitten get the best start in life, they should see a vet as soon as possible following adoption. During their first visit, we’ll discuss everything they need to grow up healthy and happy, including their nutrition, housetraining or litter box training, parasite prevention, and more.
Your pet’s first exam typically includes:
- A comprehensive physical exam
- Intestinal parasite screening
- Tailored vaccines
- Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- A discussion about dental care, spaying and neutering, and microchipping
No matter their age, your pet deserves to live their best life. Call (773) 631-6727 to make an appointment today.