Preventive care exams for pets work much like 'physicals' or 'checkups' for people, and are designed to prevent illness, provide nutritional and lifestyle advice, and detect the earliest signs of developing conditions so that they can be treated as quickly and effectively as possible. Our Fort Oglethorpe vets explain...
How Preventive Care Exams Help to Improve Your Pet's Longterm Health
These annual healthcare appointments are designed to give your pet their very best shot at a long and healthy life, by providing you with the information you need to care for your pet, and by monitoring your four-legged friend's health so that any concerning changes or developing issues can be more easily spotted.
Bringing your cat or dog into our Fort Oglethorpe animal hospital for a wellness exam allows your vet to find any issues before they become worse and gives your vet the opportunity to provide your pet with any vaccinations or preventive medications they need to keep parasites from invading their bodies.
The cost of preventive examinations is also far less than what it would be to treat diseases, illnesses, and parasitic conditions when they have become more serious. Preventive exams and early detection can also save your pet from experiencing more pain or discomfort.
How To Prepare For Your Pet's Preventive Exam
Preparing ahead for your cat or dog's preventive care appointment at The Animal Medical Center of Fort Oglethorpe can make the process easier and less stressful for both you and your pet.
- Schedule an appointment slot where you have no time restrictions because the length of the exam will depend on your pet's breed and medical condition.
- If this is your first time bringing your pet to our Fort Oglethorpe animal clinic arrive about 10 minutes early to fill out the new patient forms.
- Bring records of your pet's medical history and past and present medications and dosages.
- Take notes of your pet's food, exercise routine, and bowel movements to help your vet understand your pet's lifestyle.
- Inform your vet of any recent or previous tick bites.
- Your vet may ask you to bring in a fresh sample of your pet's stool for a fecal exam or a urine sample for a urine test.
- To help your pet stay calm at their appointment bring their favorite blanket or toy.
- Record any symptoms or behaviors that your cat or dog is displaying that's concerning you to share with the veterinarian.
- Prepare any questions you have for your vet ahead of time.
- Call your vet to ask them if it is okay for your furry friend to eat before their appointment (some tests require fasting).
- Make sure to bring your cat or small dog in a carrier, if you have a larger dog keep them on a leash
- Ask for a cost estimate and Inform your vet of your budget so they can adjust the exams accordingly.