Pet Checkups to Maintain Health, Vitality & Optimal Quality of Life
Routine exams allow us to regularly assess and monitor your companion's health and then take a proactive approach to maintaining and even improving their overall health, fitness and well-being.
Annual and twice-yearly exams also allow us to detect early signs of developing issues. When caught early, we can create a personalized treatment plan to address the issue before it becomes more serious.
When combined with a regular schedule of core vaccines, parasite prevention and good nutrition, routine exams help to give your pet their best chance at excellent lifelong health.
What to Expect During an Exam
During your pet's routine exam at Selkirk Veterinary Hospital, the veterinarian will give your dog or cat a thorough physical checkup to get a comprehensive picture of their overall health.
Your veterinarian will also check whether your dog or cat is due for any routine vaccinations or preventive care.
Once your furry friend's examination has been completed, your veterinarian will take 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.
Dog and cat checkups at our veterinary hospital typically include an examination of each of the following elements of your pet's health:
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General Condition
Your pet's general demeanour and physical condition can provide vital clues to their overall health. How your pet stands and walks, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.
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Coat & Skin
During your pet's checkup, your veterinarian will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of problems, including excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss.
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Face & Head
Your pet's checkup will include an examination of their eyes, ears, and nose. Your veterinarian will look for any abnormalities or unusual discharge in these areas.
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Teeth & Mouth
We will check the teeth and mouth for symptoms of oral health concerns such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease to help determine if you pet requires dental care.
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Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are essential elements of your pet's heart health. We'll check these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be listened to for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also palpate 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.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
To help get your new fur baby off to a healthy start in life, very specific medical care is essential during their first few weeks of life. Our team will perform a detailed physical examination of your new puppy or kitten and provide immunizations and deworming medication as needed. We will also test for intestinal parasites.
Once your newest family member's first checkup is complete, you will need to bring them in periodically for their required boosters.
Checkups for Seniors
During your senior pet's routine checkups, our team will perform a thorough examination and ask about their diet and lifestyle. Testing may be recommended to gain additional insight into their overall health.
Any masses should be assessed to determine if they pose a threat to your pet's health. Annual or semi-annual bloodwork and urinalyses are also recommended to assess organ function, which can decline significantly with age.
Your veterinarian may recommend changes to help improve your elderly pet's comfort and quality of life. Suggested changes may include alterations to your companion's diet or exercise routine, cold laser therapy to soothe inflamed joints, or medications to address chronic health issues.