Semi-annual examinations are essential for your pet’s health because they allow vets to quickly spot signs of ill-health. Wellness examinations for pets help catch any potential health issues before they become serious.
What are the main reasons why your local vet may recommend bi-annual checkups for your pet? Here are a few of the most popular.
1. Pets age faster
Pets age faster than humans and for some breeds of cats and dogs, a health checkup every 6 months is highly recommended. Remember, that larger breeds of dogs age faster and a bi-annual wellness check is certainly a good idea.
2. Health issues are easier to spot
Taking your pet for a checkup to your local vet can help to identify health problems very early. Usually, by the time that pet owners notice symptoms of odd behavior or changes in eating habits, diseases can be quite advanced and be more difficult to treat.
3. Pets hide symptoms
In the wild, weaker pets tend to be preyed on by predators and therefore have an inbuilt instinct to hide symptoms of bad health. This is especially true for cats who may not show symptoms of illness until the condition has progressed.
4. Older pets need more care
It’s generally true that older pets need more checkups than young healthy pets. Therefore, if your dog or cat is advanced in years, your vet may recommend semi-annual wellness examinations.
5. Monitor chronic conditions
Taking your pet to the vet for a checkup every 6 months may be essential to monitor any chronic health issues. Medical problems like kidney or heart disease, diabetes, or liver or kidney disease require frequent monitoring and regularly checking your pet’s bloodwork.
What Does Your Vet Check During Semi-Annual Examinations?
Taking your pet for a semi-annual checkup is a great way to look after their health. Here are some of the checks that your vet will perform:
- Ask you about any changes to your pet’s behavior since the last veterinary clinic visit.
- Check how your pet walks and stands and if they are alert.
- Carry out a physical examination of your pet’s eyes, skin, ears, nose, and face to look for underlying health problems.
- Listen to your pet’s heartbeat and breathing.
- Feel around your pet’s belly, legs, lymph nodes for signs of inflammation or discomfort.
Remember, that looking after your pet’s health requires regular visits to the veterinary clinic even if there are no visible symptoms of illness. Diagnosing medical conditions early saves you money in the long run because it will be easier and cheaper to care for your pet’s health.