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Why
should my pet have an annual physical exam?
by
Dr. Deb Kaehler
Pets should have annual
physicals for the same reason that we should:
to ensure the best in long term preventative health care.
Because our pets cannot tell us when something is wrong, annual
physical exams are even more important for them. An annual physical
exam allows us to look for any changes in the pet's condition
that could indicate a problem.
You can observe many common
problems at home,
including ear infections, skin problems, and tooth and gum
disease. Changes that aren't noticeable from the outside include
heart murmurs or irregular beats, pain in the abdomen or joints
when manipulated, or abnormal lung sounds. Even weight changes
many not be observed, especially if they occur gradually over time.
For example, you may think
tooth and gum problems
only cause bad breath. Bacteria from infected mouths
can be carried to any internal organ by the blood.
The heart is particularly susceptible. A routine dental cleaning
recommended during the physical exam could help to prevent heart disease.
By seeing your pets on a
regular basis, we become more
familiar with what is normal for them. We can observe any
changes in their condition that may require further testing,
such as blood work, urinalysis or x-rays.
You should let the
veterinarian know if you have observed
any changes in water consumption, appetite, activity level, or
urination or bowel movements. Some problems that develop are
behavioral in nature. The sooner we rule out a medical reason for
the problem, the quicker we can address the behavior, and the
better the chance of restoring the wanted behavior.
The yearly examination is a
great time to update
vaccinations, but even more importantly, it's the best thing
you can do to help your pet enjoy a long, healthy life.
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"Make a friend for life!"