Cat & Dog Wellness Exams

What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical

Your dog or cat will receive a thorough physical checkup from your Villa Rica vet. This will give us a complete snapshot of his or her overall health. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include these elements:

General Condition

Did you know your pet's physical condition and general demeanor can offer clues to their general health? How they stand and walk, whether they are a healthy weight for their size and their level of alertness are all important indicators of overall health.

Coat & Skin

We'll also check your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of problems during their checkup. These issues might include excessive oiliness or dryness, bumps, lumps, shedding, abnormal hair loss, or dandruff. 

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 are vitally important to your pet's heart health. We'll test these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be examined for evidence 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. 

Review of Findings

At the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will take the time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health, and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements. 

Checkups for Puppies & Kittens

In their first few weeks of life, puppies and kittens need appropriate medical attention to ensure they get off to a healthy start. 

We'll give your new best friend a comprehensive physical examination, the immunizations they require, and deworming medication. We'll also test for intestinal parasites. You'll receive a puppy or kitten 'kit' filled with educational material and samples to help you care for your newest family member. 

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you might have about caring for your new pet,  both during your appointments or following your visits. 

Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for his or her required booster shots. 

Seniors

With the recent advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care, as well as newer therapies and better nutrition, senior pets are living longer than ever.

While this is terrific news for pets and their owners, it means that special attention needs to be given to your animal's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet surpasses middle age, regular examinations become increasingly crucial to ensure their continuing health and longevity. 

In addition to the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will give special attention to your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.

Additional laboratory tests may be recommended for aging pets to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and wellbeing.