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What Is an Annual Wellness Exam?
Just like humans, pets need preventive care to safeguard against serious illnesses and medical conditions. Dr. Hunter Finn at Pet Method Animal Hospital in McKinney, TX, recommends annual wellness exams to detect signs of disease early on and help your pet live a long, healthy life.
Routine wellness exams typically include a full-body physical examination, dental exam, heartworm test, and possible lab tests. Your pet's exam and recommendations are personalized based on age, breed, and lifestyle. Dr. Finn and his team are passionate about offering excellent care and helping our furry patients feel calm and comfortable, ensuring the veterinary experience is an enjoyable one for pets and their owners.
What Are the Benefits of an Annual Wellness Exam?
It's not always easy to tell when a pet is sick or in pain. Annual vet visits give us a chance to check in on your furry friend’s overall health and identify any potential problems early on. Catching diseases in their early stages means we can start treatment right away and improve the chances of a full recovery.
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What Happens During a Wellness Exam?
Dr. Finn will talk with you about your pet's overall health, behavior, and lifestyle. If you have any concerns about your pet, such as problems with elimination, appetite, etc., you can share these during your visit. We perform a head-to-tail physical exam to check all essential health indicators, such as your pet's organs, lymph nodes, breathing, bones, joints, and heart health.
Dr. Finn will recommend any necessary diagnostic tests (parasite screenings, urinalysis, or blood tests), vaccines, or lifestyle changes to help ensure optimal health for your pet. While most pets need one annual exam, Dr. Finn might recommend more frequent wellness visits for senior dogs and cats or those with chronic health issues.
Dr. Finn understands that your pet is an important member of your family, and we will always work to ensure they receive the best possible care. Our team at Pet Method goes above and beyond to make sure you and your pet have a positive experience at our office.
How About Puppy and Kitten Wellness Exams?
New puppies and kittens require more frequent wellness visits. We typically recommend receiving their first set of vaccinations at 6 to 8 weeks and coming in for checkups every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age. During your tiny newcomer's visits, we will discuss external parasite and heartworm prevention, proper nutrition, behavior management, house training, and so much more. Puppy and kitten wellness visits lay the groundwork for long, happy, and active lives.
What Should I Expect After My Pet's Wellness Exam?
After Dr. Finn conducts the wellness exam, he will review the results with you and let you know of any points of concern or new conditions he would like to test for or confirm. At this time, he may also recommend new medications, advise of changes to your pet's diet, and discuss any habits you need to look out for or work on changing. Should your pet require any follow-up appointments or a visit to a specialist, Dr. Finn or a team member will help you schedule these or refer you to the appropriate place.
Veterinary Wellness Visits Near Me in McKinney, TX
Your pet ages faster than you do, which means they could be susceptible to various health problems during their lifespan. Help keep your pet healthy and happy by receiving regular preventive care at Pet Method Animal Hospital in McKinney, TX. Dr. Hunter Finn and his compassionate team strive to take the fear out of vet visits for your furry family member. We invite you to call 318-232-4393 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
Annual Wellness Exam FAQs
Pet annual wellness exams share some parallels with human ones. Your furry friend's weight and vitals will be recorded, along with receiving the necessary vaccinations and wellness tests. You also will be able to voice any concerns and refill any prescriptions your pet may need.
As the name suggests, an annual wellness visit typically takes place once a year, especially when it comes to adult dogs and cats. However, senior pets may require twice-yearly visits, and puppies, kittens, and pets with chronic health conditions or acute illnesses may require more frequent care. Wellness visits allow our team to update any needed vaccinations or booster shots. They also help us establish a baseline of your pet's health over time to identify any changes or injuries that occur.
Every year, dogs receive boosters that may include distemper, parvo, and rabies. Cats may receive different boosters, such as feline distemper, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus. Pets have various boosters and shots required following different schedules, so it's best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure your pet has maximum protection.
Your canine or feline companion's wellness exam may include some lab work, as requested by Dr. Finn. Routine lab work takes away the guesswork when it comes to your pet's health. Lab tests may include blood, stool, and urine sample testing to uncover heartworm, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, UTIs, intestinal parasites, and so much more!
Annual Wellness Exam Posts
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