Bring your pet in for a routine vet exam performed by one of our vets at Scottsdale Ranch Animal Hospital. These pet checkups focus on preventative care and help ensure your companion is in good health.
The Importance of Preventative Care
Just like us, pets need regularly scheduled routine exams to ensure they maintain good long-term physical health.
We blend routine examinations with proper nutrition, regular vaccinations and parasite prevention to ensure your pet receives the physical checkups that give him or her the best chance at great lifelong health.
When your pet comes to see us for a regular checkup, we can prevent health issues from developing in the first place, or detect them early, when they are most treatable.
What to Expect During Your Dog or Cat's Checkup
Your vet can get a complete picture of your cat's or dog's general health by giving them a complete physical examination. This exam will include the following elements:
General Condition
Your vet can gain insight into your pet's overall health by observing their physical condition and general demeanour. This includes your pet's weight in relation to their size, how they stand and walk and their level of alertness, which are all important indicators of overall health.
Coat & Skin
Your pet's coat and skin will be inspected for symptoms such as dryness or excessive oiliness, bumps, lumps, abnormal hair loss, shedding or dandruff.
Face & Head
The vet will check your pet's eyes, nose and ears for discharge or abnormalities. The mouth will also be examined for signs of oral health issues such as plaque or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Blood pressure, pulse, heart rate and rhythm are all critical elements of your pet's heart health. These will be tested to ensure they are normal before the lungs are examined for any evidence of abnormal breathing.
The vet will check your pet's lymph nodes for swelling or pain, and the abdomen will be examined to make sure the stomach, spleen, liver, bladder, intestines and kidneys all feel normal, and that your pet is not displaying any signs of discomfort.
Puppies & Kittens
To get off to a healthy start in their first few weeks of life, puppies and kittens need proper medical attention.
Your new best friend will receive a complete, head-to-tail physical exam, deworming medication and appropriate immunization. We also test for intestinal parasites. You will also get a kitten or puppy kit full of educational materials and samples to help you give your newest family member the care and attention he or she needs.
Please contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, both at your regular puppy and kitten checkups or following your visits.
Once your vet has examined your pet for the first time, you'll return periodically for the booster shots he or she will require.
Seniors
Recent advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care, in addition to better nutrition and newer therapies, mean that senior pets are living longer than ever.
As your pet ages, it becomes even more important to ensure their continuing health and longevity is preserved.
Along with the routine exams we perform for all adult pets, special attention will be given to potential age-related conditions in your senior pet, such as decreased vision or arthritis. Laboratory tests can also provide information about your pet's general health.
Vaccinations & Prevention
Wondering if your pet is due for any routine vaccinations? Your vet will check on whether your dog or cat requires preventative care during the physical exam.