At our Victoria veterinary hospital, our vets focus on preventive care by performing routine exams. These exams help ensure your pet maintains good health.
Importance of Preventive Care
Routine exams are essential to helping your pet maintain excellent long-term physical health.
When combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention and proper nutrition, routine exams include regular physical checkups to offer your pet the best opportunity at exceptional health throughout his or her life.
Schedule a regular checkup for your pet and our vets will be able to prevent your pet from developing health issues, or detect problems early, when they are most treatable.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
Your pet will receive a thorough physical examination that will allow the vet to capture a complete picture of your furry companion's overall health. The exam will include these elements:
General Condition
Did you know your pet's physical condition and general demeanour can offer clues to their overall health? Their level of alertness, how they stand and walk and whether they've achieved a healthy weight for their size indicate how healthy they are generally.
Coat & Skin
Abnormal shedding, hair loss, bumps or lumps or conditions such as dandruff, or excessive dryness or oiliness on your dog's coat or skin can indicate problems. We will check for these symptoms.
Face & Head
The vet will examine your pet's eyes, ears and nose for discharge or abnormalities. We will also check his or her mouth for symptoms of periodontal disease or plaque buildup.
Internal Health
Heart rhythm and rate, blood pressure and pulse are vitally important to your pet's heart health. Your vet will test these to ensure they're normal, then examine the lungs for any evidence of abnormal breathing.
We'll check the abdomen to ensure the kidneys, spleen, liver, stomach, bladder and intestines all feel normal, and that your pet is not displaying signs of discomfort. Lymph nodes will also be examined for pain or swelling - a common sign of illness.
Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens will require appropriate medical attention within their first few weeks to ensure they get a healthy start in life.
Your new four-legged friend will receive a complete physical examination, deworming medication and immunizations.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about your pet's care, both during your appointments or in between visits.
Once your pet has had his or her initial appointment, you'll return periodically so they can receive their required booster shots.
Seniors
Recent advances in veterinary medical care and knowledge, combined with better nutrition and newer therapies, have senior pets living longer than in decades past.
As your pet ages, routine exams become increasingly important to ensure their continuing health and longevity.
Along with the routine wellness procedures all adult pets receive from our vets, special attention is given to your senior pet's potential age-related conditions, such as diabetes, decreased vision or arthritis. Additional laboratory tests will also reveal more information about your pet's general health.
Vaccinations & Prevention
During your pet's physical exam, the vet will check whether they are due for any routine vaccinations, or if preventive care is required.
Caring for Pets in Victoria
Downtown Veterinary Clinic is accepting new patients! Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.