Cat & Dog Wellness Exams

What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical

To capture a complete picture of your dog or cat's overall health, your Ruckersville vet will give them a thorough physical checkup and provide routine care. Wellness exams at our animal clinic cover these elements:

General Condition

By assessing your pet's general demeanor and physical condition, we can gain insight into your pet's overall health.

Their level of alertness, whether they are a healthy weight for their size, and how they stand and walk are all important indicators of health.

Coat & Skin

We will examine your cat or dog's skin during their pet checkup to look for signs of problems, including lumps, bumps, abnormal hair loss, shedding, excessive oiliness or dryness, or dandruff. 

Face & Head

During dog or cat checkups, your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease. 

Internal Health

Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are vitally important to your pet's heart health.

We'll test these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing. 

Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also examine the abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of discomfort. 

Review of Findings

At Ruckersville Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing comprehensive care.

When they have finished examining your pet, your vet will take the time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements. 

Vet Checkups for Puppies & Kittens

To help them get off to a healthy start, puppies and kittens need proper medical attention in their first few weeks of life. 

Our vets will give your new best friend a complete physical checkup and examination, appropriate immunizations, and deworming medication. They will also be tested for intestinal parasites. 

The chest, heart, lymph nodes, and abdomen will be checked for internal issues, as will the joints and spine. Hair and coat will also be assessed. 

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns about caring for your new pet, both during your appointments and in-between visits. 

Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for his or her required booster shots. 

More About Puppy & Kitten Veterinary Care

Seniors

With recent advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care, as well as newer therapies and better nutrition, senior pets are living longer than ever.

While this is terrific news for pets and their owners, it means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet surpasses middle age, regular examinations become increasingly crucial to ensure their continuing health and longevity. 

In addition to the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will give special attention to your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.

Additional laboratory tests may be recommended for aging pets to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and wellbeing.

More About Senior Pet Care