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Wellness Exams
Annual wellness exams are important to detect any problems before they become a serious illness. A wellness exam includes a comprehensive physical exam and any laboratory tests that may be appropriate. Upon arrival a receptionist will get you and your pet checked in. An exam room assistant will bring you to an exam room, weigh your pet, and check your pet's temperature, pulse and respiratory rate. The exam room assistant will also get a brief history and ask about any changes in your pet's activity or behavior.
When the doctor arrives, he or she will assess your pet's overall condition and perform a thorough physical exam. Your veterinarian will also discuss your pet's history and behaviors in more detail. The exam includes checking your pet's oral cavity, mucous membranes and teeth, looking at the eyes and ears, checking the lymph nodes, and listening to the heart and lungs. The doctor will palpate the abdomen to ensure that there aren't any conspicuous masses or enlarged organs. He or she will also examine the legs and feet and evaluate the condition of your pet's joints and muscles.
Your veterinarian will discuss the findings from the exam, and if necessary recommend blood work, a urinalysis and a fecal exam. He or she will also make recommendations based on your pet's life style and environment such as spaying or neutering you pet, vaccinating for leptospirosis, and using heartworm, tick and flee prevention. Any concerns you may have will also be addressed. Your veterinarian will develop an individualized treatment plan to address any issues.
If lab work is necessary the assistant takes your pet to the treatment area to draw blood or urine. It's usually less stressful and safer for your pet to have this done away from you, as pets tend to settle down away from their owners. Any necessary vaccinations will be given along with an annual dewormer. Lab results are usually returned within a few days, but certain test can take longer, especially if there are cultures that need time to grow. The doctor will call you to discuss the results when they are back.
At the end of the appointment, the receptionist will bring any medications needed, provide you with educational materials suggested by the veterinarian, get your pet checked out, and schedule any needed follow ups.
The wellness exam is an important part of your pet's health care and will help your pet live a longer and healthier life. To schedule an exam, please call us a 303-424-3325.
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