The Importance of an Annual Physical Examination in Pets
It's that time of year again. Time to take your pet to the veterinarian for his/her "shots", or as my Dad used to say, his/her "noc-a-la-shuns". But maybe you're thinking that you might skip calling the vet this year. After all, s/he isn't sick.
After all, money's tight. Maybe you will just put it off until next year – what could it hurt?
So, you may be considering purchasing vaccinations at your local pet shop, farmer supply or co-op and giving them yourself.
Remember, most states, including Tennessee, do not recognize rabies vaccination unless a licensed veterinarian administers it. But the other vaccinations you could give yourself.
Actually, delaying an annual physical exam can hurt not only your pet, but also your bank account.
Annual physical exams are an important part of providing optimal health care and the best longevity for your beloved companion. Pets age quickly and they are unable to tell us if they are feeling a little off. Remember, it may be one year in your life but that can be about 5-10 comparative years in your pet's life. A lot can change in that much time.
Sometimes, pets can be ill for weeks and you are unaware of it. This may not be from a lack of monitoring or caring; your pet just hides his illness until it is so far advanced he has no choice but to show signs of disease. This delay can result in VERY expensive treatment, or even having to euthanize your pet.
Your veterinarian has special training and experience in detecting subtle illness in pets.
- Listening to the heart can detect murmurs.
- Increased lung sounds may indicate early illness.
- Abdominal palpation may reveal pain in certain areas, abnormal size and shape of various organs or even tumors.
- Checking out the eyes can detect early signs of cataract or other ocular problems.
- Ears may be in need of cleaning or medication.
- Dental disease may be detected as well as signs of allergies or skin problems.
- It's easier for someone who doesn't see your pet every day to detects lumps and bumps that you may not have noticed.
- Comparing annual weights, too, can determine if your pet is heading down the path to obesity or is slowly losing weight.
Certain problems that you may simply attribute to "old age," and just something you will have to live with, may be signs of underling disease and may be very treatable.
Annual physical exams also give you an opportunity to ask your veterinarian any questions you may have about your pet's health.
Your veterinarian may recommend certain additional tests to determine overall health based on physical exam findings or may have suggestions for improving the quality of your pet's life.
Remember, the primary goal for your veterinarian is to keep your pet healthy and provide the best care available. Your veterinarian cares a great deal about your pet – almost as much as you.
A physical examination is not just a chance for your vet to see how cute your pet is; a thorough exam can pick up on a variety of illnesses and prevent potential catastrophic disease.
By finding, diagnosing and treating these problems early, not only will it probably be much less expensive, but also your pet will live a much healthier and longer life.
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to e-mail us.
Dr. David Hammett and Linda Hammett
All Creatures Mobile Veterinary Service
