Routine wellness exams from our vets at Montecito Veterinary Center focus on preventive care. These routine exams help ensure your pet is in good health.
The Importance of Preventive Care
You can help your pet maintain excellent long-term physical health by ensuring they see the vet for their regularly scheduled routine exams.
Combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention, and proper nutrition, these routine examinations involve regular physical checkups to allow your furry friend the best chance at great long-term health.
When you bring your pet in for a regular checkup, we can prevent health issues from developing in the first place, or catch them early, when they are most treatable.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
Your pet will receive a thorough physical examination so your vet can capture a complete picture of his or her general health. An exam includes these elements:
General Condition
Did you know your vet can gain insight into your pet's overall health by examining their general physical condition and demeanour? Their level of alertness, whether they are a healthy weight for their size, and how they stand and walk can reveal important information about their overall health.
Coat & Skin
Your pet's coat and skin will be checked for signs of problems, including lumps, bumps, dryness, dandruff, abnormal hair loss, shedding, or excessive oiliness.
Face & Head
The vet will check your pet's nose, eyes, and ears for signs of abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for signs of oral health issues such as fractured teeth or plaque buildup.
Internal Health
Temperature, pulse, heart rate and rhythm are all vitally important to your pet's heart health. The vet will test each of these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be examined for any evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be inspected for swelling or pain, and the abdomen will be checked to ensure the spleen, stomach, liver, bladder, intestines, and kidneys all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of discomfort.
Puppies & Kittens
In their first few weeks of life, puppies and kittens need proper medical attention to ensure they have a healthy start.
The newest four-legged member of your family will receive a comprehensive physical examination, deworming medications and appropriate immunizations. We will also test for intestinal parasites. You will receive a puppy or kitten kit full of educational material, along with samples to help you care for your new companion.
Please, never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, both at your appointments or between visits. Once your pet has had the first appointment, you'll need to return periodically for his or her required booster shots.
Seniors
Recent advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care, in addition to better options for nutrition and newer therapies, have meant our senior pets are with us longer than ever. This brings special challenges as your pet ages - regular exams become increasingly essential to ensure their continued health and well-being.
Along with the routine wellness procedures we provide all adult pets, special attention will be given to your senior pet's potential age-related conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision. Additional laboratory tests can also reveal valuable insight.
Vaccinations & Prevention
During your pet's physical exam, the vet will let you know whether your pet requires any preventive care, or if they are due for any routine vaccinations.