Mature Adult Pet Wellness

For our companion animal’s adult years (three to seven years of age) we have designed a wellness program to evaluate overall health at midlife. This exam assesses present day health with an emphasis on early disease detection. As animals approach middle age the aging process, and changes in body metabolism and its response to diet and exercise, may result in subtle health issues. That is why we have designed an adult pet wellness program that includes assessment of body condition scores (for proper weight review), dental and oral health assessments, arthritis screening, and skin and haircoat analysis. In addition, results can be used as part your pet’s pre-anesthetic screening, if the physical reveals health issues such as skin mass removal or dental care that must be addressed on the anesthetized patient.

We recommend that all of our dog and cat patients that are 3-7 years of age have an annual wellness examination during which your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam evaluating your pets:

* Body condition scores and a discussion of weight and nutritional management.

* Skin for lumps and bumps, parasites, and overall coat quality.

* Musculoskeletal system to assess for arthritis

* Eyes for early cataract development or other ophthalmic diseases

* Ears to look for mites or infection

* Oral Health Assessment to check health status of teeth and gums

* Heart and respiratory systems

* Abdomen exam via palpation to evaluate the intestines, spleen, liver, kidneys and bladder.

During the office visit samples taken for a blood and urine screening set the stage for evaluation of the major body systems. Early detection of many health problems allows us to advise you on preventative care. In many cases minor lifestyle changes can delay the onset of more severe disease. Your pet will receive the finest care, including the following laboratory tests:

• Complete blood count: This test assesses the body’s red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Also known as a CBC, this blood test helps in the diagnosis of certain types of cancer, dehydration, infections, anemia, blood parasites and bleeding problems. The CBC also provides clues to the status of your pet’s immune system.

• Serum Chemistry Profile: This test is used for assessing the function of the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and other organs and for early diagnosis of diseases such as diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes), kidney and liver disorders. It also assesses electrolytes (sodium, potassium and chloride) for imbalances.

• Thyroid testing: This test measure T4 and is used for assessing the function of the thyroid gland, which helps to regulate the metabolism of the body. Increased levels are common in older cats resulting in vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss despite a good appetite. Deficiency is common in dogs resulting in lethargy, weight gain, and dermatological problems.

• Urinalysis: A urine sample will be checked for evidence of urinary tract infection and can be used to detect early kidney problems (before changes are seen in the blood), as well as help confirm diabetes and liver disease.

The test results and any treatment plans will be discussed with you within 48 hours of your visit. Just as when people have an annual physical, in most cases the results are normal. Even then, it’s good to know that everything is “all right” and the evaluation provides valuable baseline data on which to compare future results. If a condition is revealed, you know it has been discovered as early as possible. Importantly, we can work with you to ensure that your pet lives as long, healthy, and happy a life as possible. It’s the least we can do in return for all the love that our pets give us.

Your pet’s quality of life is important to us. Please call us today at 473-0111 with your questions or to make an appointment for your pet’s senior wellness examination.