The Importance of Routine Checkups
Regular wellness exams are important. They give your veterinarian a baseline as to what is normal for your pet, and for you and your pet to develop trust in your veterinarian and get to know each other.
We want to make sure that it is a good fit for everyone. These exams present an opportunity for you to ask questions and play an active role in your pet's health. Regular exams can also detect early signs of disease which can make a difference in your pet's longevity and comfort.
From kitten to senior as your pet moves through each life stage we will adjust our recommendations to your meet pet's needs wherever in life they may be.
What to Expect During an Exam
During your pet's wellness visit, the veterinarian will review your pet's lifestyle and medical history and any concerns you may have. They will then give your dog or cat a physical exam and discuss a preventative care plan tailored to your pet's individual lifestage and lifestyle.
Your vet will also check whether your dog or cat is due for any routine vaccinations or preventive care.
After your pet's exam, your veterinarian will discuss any concerns they have about your pet's overall health and will inform you about your dog or cat's nutritional needs.
Checkups at our hospital typically include an examination of each of the following elements of your pet's health:
- General Condition
An animal's general demeanour and physical condition can provide vital clues to its 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.
- 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.
- Face & Head
Your pet's checkup will include an examination of their eyes, ears, and nose. Your vet will look for any abnormalities or unusual discharge in these areas.
- 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 your pet requires dental care.
If so, we will take the time to update you on the condition of your pet's oral health and provide you with treatment recommendations to help resolve the issue.
- 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 examined for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also examine 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.
If we do find signs of an internal health issue that requires diagnostics or treatment beyond those we offer, we will refer your furry friend to a specialist veterinarian in the Greater Victoria area, or as close to home as possible.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
Having your puppy or kitten assessed by a veterinarian around 8 weeks is essential to a healthy start.
Our team will examine your new pet and administer any immunizations and deworming medications as needed.
At this visit, we will also advise you of the schedule for the rest of their booster vaccinations.
Learn More About Puppies & Kittens
Checkups for Seniors
As pets age, regular examinations become increasingly important in ensuring their continued good health and longevity. Your veterinarian will be on the lookout for signs of potential age-related conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, or decreased vision, during your senior pet's wellness exam.
Additional lab testing may be recommended for aging pets in order to provide you with a more detailed diagnosis of your senior companion's condition and provide a targeted treatment plan.