Physical Exams
We believe that the best approach to your pet's health care is to stop problems before they start. Proper care of your pet is the easiest and best way to keep him or her happy and healthy. At Commonwealth Veterinary Hospital, we provide a 'nose to toes' exam for all of our clients' pets.
Our complete veterinary examination includes:
- A review of your pet's medical history
- An ear and eye examination
- Cardiopulmonary (Heart & Lung) analysis
- A temperature reading
- A dental exam
- A dermatological (skin) exam
- An evaluation of your pet's muscle and bone strength
- Nutritional counseling based on your pet's unique needs
- Fecal exam
- Heartworm checks
- Flea, tick and other external parasite checks
We make preventative health care recommendations based on the results of this examination and on your pet's individual needs and situation, which you help us to determine. These may include laboratory tests, vaccinations, dietary or exercise advice, and/or life-style changes.
We recommend a complete physical exam for your pet on a yearly basis. Many things can change from year to year, especially as your pet gets older. Seeing your pet every year also helps us catch developing conditions before they can threaten your pet's health. Because these changes happen faster and faster as your pet gets ages, we generally recommend bi-annual senior wellness exams once your pet reaches 12 years of age that will include a senior wellness lab profile. These diagnostic screens, including blood glucose, kidney function, liver function, thyroid function and other metabolic screening tests help us identify if nutritional changes or medications might help your pet live a longer, healthier life in his or her final years. Your doctor will let you know when your pet should begin having bi-annual exams, as it varies based on species and breed.
If your pet is due for an annual or senior wellness exam, please call us to schedule your appointment.
