Cat & Dog Routine Checkups

What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical

Your vet in Glendale will perform a thorough physical checkup on your dog or cat to gain insight into his or her overall health. Routine exams at our animal clinic include these elements to ensure your pet is in tip-top shape:

General Condition

Did you know your pet's general demeanor and physical condition can provide valuable insight into their overall health? How they stand and walk, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are important indicators of physical health. 

Coat & Skin

While performing your pet's routine exam, we will inspect your cat or dog's skin and coat for symptoms of problems, including dandruff, abnormal shedding or hair loss, lumps, bumps, dryness and excessive oiliness. 

Face & Head

Abnormalities or discharge can often be found in or around an animal's eyes, ears or nose if there's an infection. That's why these are thoroughly checked, along with the mouth for symptoms of oral health issues such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease.  

Internal Health

Heart rhythm and rate, blood pressure and pulse are each essential to your pet's heart health. These will be tested to ensure they're normal and the lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing. 

Lymph nodes will be checked for swelling or pain, and the abdomen will be examined to ensure the kidneys, bladder, spleen, intestines, stomach and liver all feel normal, and that your pet is not displaying any signs of discomfort. 

Review of Findings

To finish your pet's routine exam, your vet will dedicate time to addressing any concerns either of you may have about your pet's overall health. They'll also discuss nutritional requirements for your cat or dog with you. 

Checkups for Puppies & Kittens

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

We'll give your new best friend a complete physical examination, appropriate immunizations, and deworming medication. We will also test for intestinal parasites. 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 never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have 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. 

Seniors

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

While this is terrific news for pets and their owners, it means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet surpasses 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 aging pets to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and wellbeing.