Cat & Dog Wellness Exams

What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical

Your San Diego vet will give your dog or cat a thorough physical checkup to get a comprehensive overview of their health. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include the following:

General Condition

Your pet's general demeanor and physical condition can be signs of their overall health. How they stand and walk, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.

Coat & Skin

During your pet's checkup, we will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of problems, including overly oily or dry skin, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss or shedding.

Face & Head

Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. Your vet also checks the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems like plaque buildup or periodontal disease. 

Internal Health

In order to assess your pet's heart health, your vet will test their heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure. These are vital signs of your pet's health. The lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing. 

Your veterinarian will check your pet's lymph nodes for pain or swelling, and 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 the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will take the time to talk with you about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements. 

Puppy & Kitten Care

Puppies and kittens need proper medical attention in their first few weeks of life to get off to a healthy start. 

Your new best friend will receive a complete physical examination, appropriate immunizations, and deworming medication. We'll test for intestinal parasites, and you'll be provided with a puppy or kitten 'kit' filled with educational material and samples to help you care for the newest member of your family. 

Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns about caring for your new pet, both at your appointments or following your visits.

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

Senior Pet Care

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

Although this is exciting news for pets and their loving owners, it means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet passes 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 geriatric pets to provide more detailed information about their overall health and wellbeing.