Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your pet's health and well-being. At Pet Medical Center, we believe that preventive care is the key to ensuring a long, happy life for your furry companion. An annual pet exam is essential to this care, offering a comprehensive overview of your pet's health and allowing us to detect potential issues early. Our team is here to explain what happens at your annual pet exam and why it's so important.

Initial Consultation and History Review

The first step in an annual pet exam at Pet Medical Center is an initial consultation where we review your pet's medical history. We discuss any changes or concerns you've noticed since the last visit, including alterations in behavior, diet, or activity levels. This information helps us tailor the examination to address specific needs and ensure a thorough evaluation.

Physical Examination

Our veterinarian conducts a head-to-tail assessment of your pet during the physical examination. This comprehensive check-up includes:

1. Weight and Body Condition

We measure your pet's weight and evaluate their body condition score (BCS). Monitoring weight changes helps us identify potential health issues, such as obesity or sudden weight loss, which could indicate underlying problems.

2. Coat and Skin

We examine your pet's coat and skin for signs of allergies, parasites, infections, or other dermatological issues. A healthy coat and skin are indicators of overall well-being.

3. Eyes, Ears, and Mouth

We inspect the eyes for clarity and check for any signs of redness, discharge, or cloudiness. The ears are examined for cleanliness and signs of infection or mites. A dental check-up is crucial for identifying tartar buildup, gum disease, or other oral health problems.

4. Heart and Lungs

Using a stethoscope, we listen to your pet's heart and lungs to detect any abnormalities, such as heart murmurs, irregular rhythms, or respiratory issues. Early detection of cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions allows for timely intervention and treatment.

5. Abdomen

We palpate the abdomen to check for any unusual lumps, swelling, or pain. This helps us assess the condition of internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, and intestines.

6. Musculoskeletal System

We evaluate your pet's musculoskeletal system by checking their joints, bones, and muscles. This helps identify signs of arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other mobility issues.

Vaccinations and Preventive Care

During the annual pet exam , we review your pet's vaccination records to ensure they are up-to-date on all necessary immunizations. Vaccinations protect your pet from potentially life-threatening diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.

We also discuss preventive care measures, including flea and tick control, heartworm prevention, and deworming protocols. We can help safeguard your pet against common parasites and infections by staying proactive with preventive care.

Diagnostic Tests

In addition to the physical examination, we may recommend diagnostic tests to understand your pet's health better. These tests can include:

1. Blood Work

Routine blood tests help assess your pet's overall health and detect issues such as anemia, kidney disease, liver problems, and diabetes.

2. Urinalysis

A urinalysis provides valuable information about your pet's kidney function, hydration status, and possible urinary tract infections.

3. Fecal Examination

A fecal exam helps identify intestinal parasites, such as worms, which can cause gastrointestinal issues and impact your pet's overall health.

Tailored Health and Wellness Plans

Based on the findings of the annual pet exam, our team creates a tailored health and wellness plan for your pet. This plan includes recommendations for diet, exercise, dental care , and any necessary treatments or follow-up visits. We work hard to provide personalized care that meets your pet's unique needs and ensures its long-term health and happiness.

Schedule an Appointment Today

An annual pet exam is vital to maintaining your pet's health and well-being. Pet Medical Center is dedicated to providing thorough and compassionate care for your furry friends. Regular check-ups enable our team to detect potential issues early, administer necessary vaccines, and create customized wellness plans. Contact our Ames, IA office by calling (515) 232-7204 to book your appointment and give your pet the exceptional care they deserve.