Veterinary Exam

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We suggest regular veterinary examinations for the same reason your physician and dentist recommend them – if you can detect a problem in its early stages, it’s more likely to be treated and resolved with less expense, less difficulty and better success. Vaccinations, heartworm prevention and routine deworming are important components of wellness care and can prevent diseases from becoming life-threatening. We invite you to book an appointment or give us a call at 403-982-8387 for more information on vaccinations and diseases.

How often should I bring my pet in for a veterinary exam?

Just as annual physical exams are recommended for humans, the same is expected for our pets. A year is a long time in a pet’s life and they could encounter parasites on adventures or joint damage during a particularly rambunctious play date. This is especially important for cats who are skilled at hiding their injuries to not appear weak to their predators. As your cat or dog ages, they become vulnerable to medical problems and may need more frequent examinations. If you make an appointment to address specific concerns we conduct wellness checks to search for illnesses, pain or issues that require a treatment plan.

What do you evaluate during the physical exam?

While examining your pet we discuss the care you give at home, your concerns and offer resources that could make your pet’s life easier, especially if they have any chronic medical conditions. During their annual physical exam we will review these aspects of your pet’s health:

• Vaccination status
• Parasite control for intestinal parasites
• Dental health (mouth odour, pain, pale gums, etc.)
• Ears and Eyes (discharge, redness, or itching)
• Stomach and intestines (vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas, belching, or abnormal stools)
• Breathing (coughing, shortness of breath, sneezing, or nasal discharge)
• Feet and legs (limping, weakness, toenail problems, etc.)
• Coat and skin (hair loss, pigment changes, lumps, itchy spots, shedding, mats, or anal sac problems)
• Urogenital (discharges, heats, changes in mammary glands, urination difficulties, etc.)

This is a chance to share any physical or behaviour problems, like accidents or changes in their temperament. We like to know what your pet eats, how often and if there are any changes in your pet’s ability to exercise. We also take this opportunity to do blood tests for geriatric pets, those with medical problems, and those who are receiving medications.