Wellness Care
At Animal Hospital of South Bay, we believe that regular wellness and preventative care are the foundation of a long, healthy life for your pet. Routine annual exams are recommended for all pets, regardless of their age or health status. These visits provide a thorough physical examination and help us create a healthy profile for your pet, ensuring they receive the best care possible.
What Happens During a Wellness Exam?
A wellness exam goes beyond just a quick check-up. It includes a full physical examination of your pet, during which the veterinarian will:
- Assess your pet’s overall health by checking their eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, heart, lungs, abdomen, and joints.
- Review your pet’s past medical history, lifestyle, diet, and behavior to better understand their needs and risks.
- Answer any questions you may have about your pet’s health, and provide expert guidance on how to keep them in optimal condition.
- Recommend necessary diagnostics or screenings, such as bloodwork or other tests, to monitor your pet’s internal health and detect any early signs of illness.
- Assess your pet’s health risk based on their age, breed, lifestyle, and environment, and tailor a plan that best suits their needs.
Why Yearly Exams are Important
Routine wellness exams are essential for detecting potential health problems early, even when your pet seems healthy. During these “healthy” exams, we often discover medical issues that pet owners may not have been aware of, such as dental disease, parasites, or hidden conditions like heart disease or kidney problems. Catching these issues early can lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes for your pet.
Vaccinations and Preventative Care
Your pet’s wellness exam is also the ideal time to ensure they are up-to-date on necessary vaccinations.
Parasite Prevention
Parasite control is a key part of your pet’s wellness care. During the exam, we’ll discuss appropriate parasite prevention, including flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.
Dental Health
Dental health is often overlooked but is a vital part of overall wellness. During your pet’s exam, we’ll examine their teeth and gums for signs of disease, which can affect their overall health. If necessary, we’ll recommend dental cleaning or other treatments to keep their mouth healthy.
Bloodwork and Nutritional Advice
Depending on your pet’s health status, we may recommend routine bloodwork to monitor vital organ functions and detect any hidden conditions. Nutrition is also a key focus during wellness exams. We’ll evaluate your pet’s diet and provide guidance on maintaining a balanced, healthy feeding regimen based on their specific needs.
Establishing a Relationship with You and Your Pet
Routine wellness visits are also an opportunity for us to establish a strong relationship with both you and your pet. These exams allow us to get to know your pet better, ensuring we can provide the most personalized care. It’s a great time for you to ask any questions, voice concerns, and stay informed about how to best care for your pet.
Schedule Your Pet’s Wellness Exam Today!
Annual wellness exams are the best way to ensure your pet’s health remains in top shape. Call us today to schedule your pet’s next wellness visit, and let us help you keep them healthy and happy for years to come!
