A regular physical examination is paramount to preventative veterinary care. At Oldwick Animal Hospital, we perform a complete physical, no matter the presenting complaint. In times of health, we recommend an annual physical. Annual physicals allow you and your veterinarian to review your pet’s overall health and behavior. In addition, annual exams provide the opportunity to identify potential health concerns before they mature to more serious conditions.
Our complete physical consists of thorough examination of:
- Hydration
- Ears
- Eyes
- Nose
- Teeth
- Oral cavity
- Cardiovascular system
- Respiratory system
- Internal organs by palpation
- Musculoskeletal system
- Neurological system
- Skin
- Lymph nodes
- Urogenital system
- Rectal health
- Pain
- Behavior
In addition to a physical exam, your veterinarian may recommend vaccines to protect your pet or lab work to screen for current infections. You and your veterinarian will work together to decide which vaccinations and screening tests are most appropriate for your pet.
Vaccinations:
Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs and cats. The diseases involved have significant morbidity and mortality, are widely distributed, and in general, are easily prevented with vaccination.
- Canine Core Vaccines
- Rabies virus
- Distemper virus/Adenovirus Type 2/Parainfluenza/Parvovirus
- Feline Core Vaccines
- Rabies virus
- Rhinotracheitis/Calicivirus/Panleukopenia virus
Non-core or “lifestyle” vaccines are recommended for dogs and cats based on their level of exposure to a given bacteria or virus. Exposure changes based on lifestyle and the geographic region(s) your pet frequents.
- Canine Non-core Vaccines
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Influenza
- Lyme
- Leptospirosis
- Feline Non-core Vaccines
- Leukemia
Lab work:
- 4Dx – blood screening test for:
- Heartworm infection
- Tick-borne infections: Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease
- Fecal exam – macro- and microscopic examination of feces for adult parasites, eggs, and cysts