Scheduling Regular Visits

Routine Check-Ups with Your Local Veterinarian

As a pet owner, one of the most important things you can do to make sure your pet stays healthy is to schedule regular visits with your veterinarian. Routine check-ups can make all the difference for a pet of any age, from a new kitten to an aging dog. These regular visits may include vaccinations, teeth cleaning and brief exams to assess your pet's overall health. Because animals cannot communicate when they experience early symptoms of illnesses or injuries, routine visits with your veterinarian may be absolutely crucial in detecting medical conditions early on.

Depending on the age and health of your pet, you may wish to schedule a regular visit at your local veterinary clinic every year or possibly twice a year. In some cases, visits may be required more often for the administration of special medication or to check on a specific illness or injury.

What to Expect in a Routine Veterinary Check-Up

When you go to the veterinarian for a routine check-up, you can expect the following:

  • Weighing your pet;
  • Listening to the heart and lungs;
  • Asking if your pet has been displaying any unusual behavior or symptoms;
  • Checking the ears, eyes and teeth;
  • Taking your pet's temperature;
  • Checking your pet's overall appearance;
  • A recommendation of how to treat any illness or injury that was discovered, if necessary.

Every visit may be different depending on your veterinarian's specific approach as well as your pet's needs. In high-risk animals, for instance, your veterinarian may wish to perform additional or specialized tests to ensure they are not experiencing any early symptoms of an illness or injury. You can also check your pet at home, checking their body for lumps, cuts or swelling. Keeping a close eye on their eating habits can also help you spot any problems early on.

Instead of waiting until your pet is displaying signs of a serious illness, make sure you schedule regular visits with your veterinarian and keep up to date on their vaccinations. In addition to conducting these routine exams, your vet can keep you informed of what to expect as your pet ages and can offer helpful tips related to flea and tick control, certain illnesses and vaccinations and what symptoms to look for in common illness or injuries that may affect your particular type and breed of pet. All of this may go a long way in helping your pet lead a long and healthy life. As a preventative measure to avoiding serious medical conditions, this type of veterinary care can even save you money in the long run.

Interested in finding a vet for routine check-ups? Find a veterinarian in your area.