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Why Does my Pet Need an Annual Check-up?
Booking your pet in to visit us is vital for the overall health of your pet and is an excellent time to receive a thorough check-up, regular vaccinations and sound advice. Our domestic pets can tend to conceal when they are unwell, so even if they seem fine, a schedule of regular, annual health checks is important. Annual vet visits can also help to identify health issues which may not be evident to owners before they become a serious issue.
Some common signs of illness include (but are not limited to):
- A change in appetite or thirst (either increased or decreased)
- Coughing or abnormal breathing
- Vomiting and or diarrhoea
- Straining to urinate or defecate
- Discovery of any lumps or bumps
- Abnormal discharges (e.g. blood, pus)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Behavioural changes, unrest and or unease for example
What to Expect at Your Annual Health Check
1/ A routine once over
At an annual health check, we will ask questions on your pet’s history, appetite, behaviour and routine. We will compare their weight to previous visits, conduct a dental check and discuss nutrition, feeding and grooming routines. We will then systematically examine your pet, checking body systems and organs from their nose to the tip of their tail. Detailed physical examinations are essential to compare body systems and check their functionality.
2/ Administer or advise on regular vaccinations
Your pet may also be due for their vaccinations. Vaccinations help prevent contagious and sometimes fatal diseases in cats and dogs. They are most effective when given at fixed dates with timely booster vaccinations. Vaccinations are essential for all pets, especially those that spend time outside the home and have contact with other animals. Most kennels, catteries and dog day-care facilities require proof of vaccination so it is a good idea to keep it up to date in case you need to board your pet. Many vaccinations in Australia are now given tri-annually (every three years). We can advise you on the optimum preventative care program for your pets’ specific needs.
3/ Administer additional vaccinations where necessary
It is important to seek advice from your vet as some vaccinations could be recommended based on where you live.
Be sure to check out our blogs that talk you through the specific diseases and why it is important to protect your pet:
4/ Administer or advise on parasite prevention
Parasites live on (e.g. fleas) or inside (e.g. intestinal worms) our pets. They can cause considerable irritation and illness. The type of parasites that are most important for your pet will depend on their species, age, and lifestyle. Where you live (e.g. paralysis tick areas), can also contribute to the type of protection your pet needs.
Even pets which don’t leave the home still need parasite protection, as there are multiple ways parasites can enter your home. Your indoor cat can be exposed to fleas if you have dogs or visiting neighbour cats. Exposure to worm eggs is also possible from dirt on shoes. There are many options on the market for managing parasites so let us help recommend the most appropriate parasite preventative treatments and schedules for your individual pet.
Take some time to understand flea and tick management. For our blog for more in-depth information on what to look out for and how to control fleas and ticks.
Looking out for our Senior Members
Our older family members need a little extra care and attention which may require more regular (6 monthly) check-ups. A senior blood profile is often recommended to pick up diseases early.
The Village Vet will help you look out for the following symptoms common in elderly pets, full details of which can be read in detail here:
Obesity
Older dogs are often less active so adjustments to diet may be required.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is not only painful but also debilitating. There are many ways we can assist your pet through natural and medicinal practices.
Temperature regulation is altered
Our ageing pets often find it harder to regulate their temperature. The Village Vet can help you manage this for them.
Dental disease
Tooth decay not only makes it hard to eat but also increases the likelihood of infections both in the gums and surrounding bones. It can also seed infecton in other organs.
Prostate enlargement and Mammary gland tumours.
Such problems occur mostly in un-desexed animals. If your pet is not desexed make sure you notify your vet and ask them to check these organs in particular.
Skin and coat changes.
Your vet will check for thyroid disorders and other endocrine problems which commonly occur in older pets.
Canine cognitive dysfunction
Cognitive decline may show itself with restlessness, confusion or altered behavioural patterns. Your vet will advise you correctly on medications to help your pet settle.
Increased Thirst
Increased thirst is a possible sign of diabetes, kidney failure, liver issues or Cushings disease. Your veterinarian will determine this and prescribe the appropriate medication.
Decreased sense of smell.
Changes in your pet’s ability to smell may drastically reduce your pet’s appetite, your Vet may suggest dietary changes.
Separation Anxiety
Anxiety presents itself when older pets (particularly dogs) cannot cope with stress when separated from their human family. Medication combined with behaviour modification techniques are key.
A Note to Remember
Remember that you know your pet best so if you notice anything out of the ordinary, it is always best to give us a call so we can check your pet and advise you on the best health care path for them. Together, we can ensure we keep them happy and healthy.
Prevention is always better than cure, a proactive preventative care program for your pet will enhance their lives and reduce the risk of them having to undergo more extensive and costly treatments, ask us for more advice on the best course of action for your pet.
Make a booking to see one of our highly trained Vets at The Village Vet. Or call us directly on 9499 4010 (Pymble Clinic) or 83505678 (Killara Hospital).
Sources
- Dr Martine Perkins, The Village Vet, Director (Vet Director of Pymble Veterinary Clinic and Killara Veterinary Hospital).
- Vetschoice.com.au: Dr Alice Marshall, Registered Veterinarian (NSW VSB)
- MSD Animal Health: Overview of Parasitic Infections by Chelsea Marie , PhD, University of Virginia and William A. Petri, Jr, MD PhD, University of Virginia School of Medicine.
