The Importance of Pet Annual Exams in Brentwood
The long-term physical health and happiness of your pet depends largely on regular wellness exams with your veterinarians.
When combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention and proper nutrition, these routine physical checkups can help give your pet the best chance at great lifelong health.
When you bring your dog or cat in for their routine checkup, we can prevent health issues from developing in your pet, catch them early when they are most treatable, and monitor any ongoing conditions.
What Happens During Your Pet's Wellness Exam
Your Brentwood vet will perform a thorough physical checkup on your dog or cat in order to get a complete picture of their overall health. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include the following elements:
General Condition
Your pet's general demeanor and physical condition can provide clues to their overall health. How they stand and walk, their 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, we will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of problems, including excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal shedding.
Face & Head
Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or dental disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are vitally important to your pet's heart health. The heart will be checked, and then the lungs will then be examined for signs of abnormal breathing.
Your vet will also check lymph nodes for pain or swelling, and the abdomen will be examined to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not showing any signs of discomfort.
Review of Findings
At the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will take the time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens need proper medical attention during their few weeks of life to get off to a healthy start.
We'll give your pet a complete physical examination, immunizations, and deworming medication. We will also test for intestinal parasites. You'll also receive a puppy or kitten 'kit' filled with helpful information and samples to help you care for the newest member of your family.
Please get in touch with any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, either during or after your visits.
Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for their required booster shots.
Seniors
Senior pets are living longer than ever due to advancements in veterinary care and medical knowledge, as well as more advanced therapies and improved nutrition.
Although this is exciting for pets and their loving humans, it also means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's health as they age. After your pet passes middle age, regular wellness checks become increasingly crucial to ensure their continuing health and longevity.
In addition to the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will give special attention to your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or worsening vision.
Your vet may recommend additional diagnostic testing for your senior pet, in order to provide more detailed information about their overall health and wellbeing.
Behavioral Counseling
If your dog is exhibiting behaviors that are destructive, unsafe, or otherwise problematic, let our animal behaviorist help you and your pet find harmony.
Your Pet’s Nutrition
Pet nutrition is something that many pet owners struggle with. Our Brentwood vets are here to help you find the diet that meets your pet's unique needs.
Vaccinations & Prevention
During your pet's veterinary checkup at our Brentwood animal hospital, the vet will check if your animal requires preventive care, or if they are due for any routine vaccinations.