If you've recently found a new veterinarian, there's a good chance that your first visit to the vet clinic will be for your pet's annual wellness examination. Regular wellness exams are highly recommended for staying up to date on any changes in your pet's health, as well as making sure your pet has all needed vaccinations and immunizations. Not sure what to expect from your pet's first exam? While all veterinary offices are different, most follow a general timeline for wellness exams.
A Quick "Get-to-Know-You"
Making sure your pet is as comfortable as possible is key, so any reputable veterinary clinic should take the time to get to know you and your pet inside the exam room. Your pet should get a chance to roam and sniff around while the veterinarian or vet assistant asks you some basic questions about your pet, such as the type of food they eat and how much time they spend outdoors. This is also an opportunity for you to bring up any questions or concerns you have about your pet's health.
Visual Examination and Testing
Next, it's time to examine your pet. This usually begins by weighing your pet in addition to checking his or her temperature. From there, the veterinarian or vet assistant will assess the health of your pet's coat, eyes, and ears. He or she will also take time to assess your pet's heartbeat and lung function, making sure that everything looks and sounds normal.
Additional Diagnostic Recommendations
If any potential problems are spotted, your veterinarian may also recommend additional diagnostics, such as blood work or X-rays. Even if no obvious problems are detected, blood work is a common recommendation for pets over the age of three years. This is great for establishing a baseline for your pet's health and ruling out certain diseases that may not otherwise display obvious symptoms.
Vaccination/Immunization Updates
Finally, if your pet is due for any vaccinations or immunizations, these can be administered before you and your pet leave. If you're not sure whether your pet needs any vaccines, be sure to bring any existing vet paperwork with you to the appointment. The veterinary staff will be able to review the paperwork and determine which vaccinations/immunizations, if any, are needed. From there, you'll be reminded to bring your pet back (likely in another six months to a year) for his or her next exam and will be on your way.
Share1 February 2017
Do you own a small animal like a mouse, hamster or even a lizard? Did you know that even these tiny creatures can benefit from veterinary care? My name is Emma, and I own a number of small pets. I have found out through my experiences that veterinary care can give my little pets a longer, healthier life. This blog will cover what a small animal needs from regular medical care as well as special situations that require emergency veterinary intervention. Tiny pets deserve a healthy life, too. Learn how to do all your can for the littlest animals in your care.
