Annual Veterinary Check-ups
At Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital, we offer high-quality veterinary care for residents of Surrey. We provide preventative care, including annual wellness exams, sickness visits, and emergency care.
Who Needs Yearly Veterinary Exams?
Most dogs and cats will need to visit the vet once a year. However, young and old pets need more frequent visits. Puppies and kittens will need frequent visits, particularly until they are fully vaccinated. Once they reach 1 year old, they will begin having annual checkups. Senior dogs and cats typically need to visit the vet 2 times a year. This usually occurs once they reach 7 to 10 years old, depending on your pet and their breed.
What Happens at a Yearly Exam?
When you bring your pet to the animal hospital for a yearly exam, you can expect your veterinarian to give them a physical exam to check for any health issues. They may also perform blood tests to check your pet's organ function. However, this is only one aspect of a wellness visit.
Vaccinations
One reason yearly visits are important is to keep your pet up to date on their vaccinations. Once your pet has had their initial series of vaccines, they will need booster vaccines every 1-3 years. At your visit, your vet will discuss your pet's vaccinations. If it's time for a vaccine, it will be given at this appointment.
Parasite Prevention
Parasite prevention is also discussed. This is an important part of preventative pet care. Your pet may need flea and tick medication, and medication to prevent heartworm, which can be deadly. Your vet will prescribe these medications, and you can pick them up when needed throughout the year.
Dental Check-Up
Your veterinarian will also check your pet's teeth. Dental issues like cavities and gum disease are common problems for pets. Yearly checkups can catch any dental issues early, which provides better treatment outcomes.
Weight and Nutrition
Your vet will also check your pet's weight and discuss their diet. If your pet is overweight, your vet will recommend a weight-loss diet. This may include specific food. If their weight is healthy, your veterinarian may discuss their nutritional needs and the food you are currently feeding them.
Lifestyle and Exercise
Exercise is important for your pet. Expect your vet to ask about their activity level. Your vet may make recommendations about your pet's exercise. They will also discuss your pet's lifestyle, including how they spend their days and the activities they enjoy.
Learn More about Annual Exams at Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital
Are you looking for a veterinarian near you? If you are in Surrey and would like to learn more about our veterinary services, contact Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital. We offer yearly exams to keep your pet healthy and happy and address any health issues early.
