What to Expect During a Comprehensive Pet Examination

At Newport Center Animal Hospital and Pet Suites, we believe in prevention as the first line of defense against pet illnesses. Like humans, pets need comprehensive exams tailored to their unique needs. By detecting any health concerns as they develop, we can treat them in their earliest stages, preventing them from becoming more serious problems down the road.

How Often Should You Schedule Comprehensive Pet Exams?

The frequency of comprehensive exams can vary, depending on your furry friend’s age, breed, lifestyle, and current health concerns. In general, adult pets ages 1 – 7 that are in good health require annual visits, while older pets or those with chronic health concerns may need visits every 3 – 6 months to monitor their health.

Puppies and kittens typically require more frequent vet visits for necessary preventive care. We’ll create a vaccination schedule for your tiny newcomer and let you know when to come in for boosters. We’ll also discuss spaying or neutering and parasite prevention.

If you notice changes in your pet’s behavior, overall demeanor, feeding, or energy levels, or if you have any concerns between appointments, don’t wait. Make sure to schedule an appointment right away. Treating any problems as they develop will help keep your pet healthy and sound.

What Can You Expect During a Comprehensive Pet Exam?

Each pet visit is a unique experience, fully tailored to your furry friend’s needs. However, the following is what you may expect during a comprehensive pet exam:

Comprehensive, Head-to-Toe Evaluation: We will evaluate every aspect of your pet’s health, including the major organs and systems. We will start by asking you about your pet’s behavior, feeding habits, exercise levels and whether you have any concerns. We will check for urinary issues, coat and skin problems, and mobility. We will also inspect the eyes and ears, look for signs of respiratory problems, and evaluate your pet’s gastrointestinal system to ensure everything is on track. 

Dental Exam: Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is critical to your pet’s health and well-being. We will examine your furry friend’s mouth to check for signs of tartar buildup, gum disease, dental decay, or oral abnormalities. We may recommend a professional dental cleaning, if needed, and may provide tips for at-home dental care.

Diagnostic Testing: Depending on your furry friend’s age, breed, and health status, we may recommend diagnostic testing, including bloodwork, urinalysis, and stool sample evaluation. These tests help us evaluate major organ functions and help us rule out infections or other underlying health concerns. Detecting early signs of disease allows us to address any problems before they become serious concerns.

Vaccinations: Vaccinations are critical to your pet’s health and quality of life. They protect your cat or dog from life-threatening diseases. Core vaccinations are required for all household pets, preventing serious infectious diseases like rabies. Non-core vaccines, on the other hand, will depend on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors. We will review your pet’s vaccination history to ensure everything is up to date for maximum protection.

Parasite Prevention: Parasite prevention includes measures to keep fleas, ticks, heartworm, and internal parasites at bay. We will recommend the best options for maximum protection and may recommend stool analysis and deworming medication, if needed, based on your pet’s risk factors and lifestyle.

Next Steps: We will discuss our observations and make recommendations for your pet’s health, as needed, including nutritional counseling, dental care, behavior, weight management, or pain management. In some cases, our veterinarians may need to order additional diagnostic testing or bloodwork to further evaluate a specific concern. We will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s unique needs.

Comprehensive Pet Exams Near Me in Newport Beach, CA

Don’t wait until your pet is under the weather before scheduling a comprehensive exam. We invite you to visit Newport Center Animal Hospital & Pet Suites to promote a healthier, longer, and more fulfilling life. Our dedicated veterinarians and team are here to support your pet’s health every step of the way. Contact our office at 949-644-5460 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!