Cat & Dog Wellness Exams
Routine Checkups to Promote Optimal Pet Health
Regular wellness exams are critical to helping your pet maintain good long-term physical health.
When combined with regular vaccinations, preventive care and proper nutrition, routine physical checkups allow your veterinarian to prevent health issues from developing or catch them early, when they are most treatable.
Regular checkups also provide you an opportunity to discuss concerns or ask questions regarding your dog or cat's well-being. This proactive approach can save you both time and money by addressing potential health issues before they become more serious.
What to Expect During an Exam
During your pet's routine exam at Lady Hammond Animal Hospital, your dog or cat will be given a thorough physical examination in order to provide us with vital insights into their overall health.
Your veterinarian will thoroughly examine your pet to see if there are any signs of problems, and check their records to see if they are due for any vaccinations or parasite prevention products.
Once your pet's exam has been completed, your veterinarian will speak with you about concerns they may have about your pet's health and may provide diet and lifestyle recommendations to help promote optimal health.
Pet checkups at our veterinary clinic typically include an examination of each of the following elements of your pet's health:
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General Condition
A dog or cat's general demeanour and physical condition provide vital clues to their overall health. How your pet stands and walks, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.
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Coat & Skin
Your veterinarian will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of problems, including excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss.
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Face & Head
Your pet's checkup will include an examination of their eyes, ears, and nose. Your veterinarian will look for abnormalities or unusual discharge in these areas.
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Teeth & Mouth
Dental health plays a key role in overall health. We will check your companion's teeth and mouth for signs of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease to help determine if they require dental care.
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Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are essential elements of your pet's heart health. We will then carefully listen to the heart and lungs for evidence of abnormal heart rate and breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling. Your veterinarian will also assess your dog or cat's abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and check for signs of discomfort in this area.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
To help get your pet off to a healthy start in life, proper medical attention is essential for puppies and kittens during their first few weeks of life. Our team will perform a detailed physical examination of your tiny friend and provide immunizations and deworming medication as needed. We will also test for intestinal parasites.
Once your puppy or kitten's first checkup is complete, you will need to bring them in periodically for their required boosters.
Learn More About Puppies & Kittens
Checkups for Seniors
As pets enter their senior years, regular examinations play an increasingly important role in ensuring their continuing good health and longevity. During your senior pet's wellness exam, your veterinarian will be particularly watchful for signs of common age-related conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis or decreased vision.
Additional lab testing may be recommended for aging pets to provide you with a more detailed diagnosis of your senior pet's condition and provide a targeted treatment plan.
New Patients Welcome
Lady Hammond Animal Hospital is accepting new patients from across the Halifax Regional Municipality! We'd love to welcome you and your cat or dog into our veterinary family. Get in touch to book your companion's first appointment.