The Importance of Preventive Care
Wellness exams help your pet maintain good, long-term physical health.
Combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention, and proper nutrition, these routine examinations are the cornerstone of your pet's healthcare.
When you bring your dog or cat in for their routine checkup, we can assess their current health, work to prevent health issues from developing in your pet, and catch emerging health issues early when they are most treatable.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Vet Checkup in New Hope
Your New Hope vet will give your dog or cat a thorough physical checkup in order to get a complete picture of his or her overall health. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include the following elements:
General Condition
Your pet's general demeanor and physical condition can provide clues to 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 cat or dog's checkup, we will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of problems, including excessive oiliness or dryness, 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. We will also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are vitally important to your pet's heart health. We'll test these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we 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 discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
In the first few months of their lives, it is critical that puppies and kittens receive the medical care they need to get off to a good start.
When you bring your new best friend into New Hope Animal Hospital, we'll give them a complete physical examination, the appropriate immunizations, and deworming medication. We will also test for any existing intestinal parasites.
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, your vet will set up a schedule for you to return for the required booster shots.
Seniors
Recent advances in veterinary knowledge mean that senior pets are living longer and healthier lives 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 screen your senior pet for potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.
Your New Hope vet may recommend additional laboratory tests to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and wellbeing.
Vaccinations & Prevention
While your pet is visiting New Hope Animal Hospital for their wellness exam, your vet will let you know if they are due for any routine vaccinations or parasite preventive measures.
New Patients Welcome
New Hope Animal Hospital is accepting new patients! Let our experienced vets give your pet the comprehensive care they deserve. Reach out today to book your pet's first appointment.