A pet wellness exam is a comprehensive physical examination done by a licensed veterinarian. It is similar to the annual physical exam that human beings receive. Veterinarians recommend having it done at least twice a year.

During the exam, the veterinarian obtains a history of the pet before checking vitals such as temperature, weight, pulse, and breathing. They then do a head-to-tail checkup, checking your pet's ears, mouth, lungs, stomach, and heart. The vet makes recommendations based on the results of this test.

In addition, the veterinarian may prescribe heartworm testing for dogs, intestinal parasite screening, and blood tests in senior pets or pets under medication to check general organ function and health.

Two primary reasons make a wellness checkup necessary. One is to examine your pet's overall health, and the other is to look for any illnesses that might be fatal if they develop in the future. Other reasons include:

To Provide the Pet Owner With Vital Information

During the examination, the vet will assess your pet's weight. If your pet is underweight or has lost a significant amount of weight, the vet will advise you on how to get your pet back to a healthy weight. If your pet is overweight, the vet will direct you to the best diet for your pet to improve their health.

To Prevent Diseases and Get Rid of Parasites

During the checkup, the veterinarian will look for fleas, ticks, and even worms. They may also advise you to go for immunization or any course of treatment that is of value to your pet.

To Examine Your Pet's Oral Health

According to studies, most pets develop periodontal disease by the age of three. If left untreated, these periodontal diseases can cause pain, infection, and heart, liver, and kidney issues. During the exam, the veterinarian will check the pet's teeth and gums before providing suggestions for home care and professional treatment to maintain your pet's gums and teeth health.

To Address Any Behavioral Concerns

If you have observed troubling behavioral changes in your pet, it is time to go for the wellness exam. A wellness exam is a great chance to talk about any issues or concerns you have about your pet's behavior. Furthermore, the veterinarian will discuss how you can handle them in a way that is comfortable for both you and your pet.

To Update Vaccinations

Being at the vet's office for a wellness exam is an excellent opportunity to update your pet's immunizations and vaccinations. This would help them prevent illnesses by strengthening their immune systems and improving their general health.

To Get Their Blood Analyzed

During your checkup, the vet may choose to analyze the pet's blood. Having your pet's blood tested regularly becomes more important as they age. These blood tests aid in the early detection of a variety of illnesses and conditions, including cancer, organ failure, and diabetes. This can aid in the detection and treatment of certain conditions before it is too late.

For more information on why a pet wellness exam is important, visit Port Royal Veterinary Hospital at our office in Port Royal, South Carolina. You can also call 843-379-7387 to book an appointment today.