Veterinary Exam

Veterinary or wellness exams can help keep your dog or cat healthy by catching diseases, illnesses and parasitic infestations early. Illnesses that are caught early are more easily treated, and your pet is more likely to make a full recovery. Veterinary exams also allow us to provide you with recommendations on ways you can best support your pet's wellbeing.

What happens during my pet's routine exam?

When you bring your pet in for their routine pet exam, be prepared to answer questions about changes you've noticed in weight, appetite, behavior and activity levels as well as any prior medical history. We check your pet's mouth, eyes, ears, nose and neck, looking for abnormalities or parasites, like ear mites. We will also look for signs of fleas or ticks on their skin and check their nail lengths and health. Our veterinarian will then listen to your pet's heart and lungs and take their temperature. We also assess signs of pain or joint problems in your pet's legs, as well as examine their tail and hind end for potential problems. Veterinarians may perform the following additional diagnostic testing as needed:

• Bloodwork
• Cardiology tests
• Digital X-rays
• Stool testing

How is my puppy/kitten's wellness exam different from older pets?

At your puppy or kitten's first exam, our team will perform a full physical examination to evaluate your pet's current health status. Depending on their specific needs, we will develop the proper course of vaccines and other treatments to ensure a healthier, longer life. We will work with you to create the right wellness care plan that fits your pet's lifestyle. Our customized wellness care package can help you manage your new puppy or kitten's health, from scheduling the necessary vaccinations to preventing future disease and illness through comprehensive diagnostic testing.

How often should my adult pet have their routine exam?

Adult pets should have their exam yearly. However, they'll need more frequent visits if they have underlying health issues. If your pet is a senior, we recommend exams every six months. Once your pet becomes a senior, they are at an increased risk for certain ailments, including arthritis and kidney/liver problems. Older pets can even develop diabetes. For these reasons, we recommend scheduling wellness exams more frequently than other adult pets. This allows our veterinarian to diagnose problems quickly so that your pet can continue to live a happy, active life. To book your pet's next veterinary exam, please contact us at 416-245-8805.