Today’s pets are living longer than ever, chances are that many may experience a potentially serious illness during their lifetime. Pets, on average, age five to eight times faster than humans. By age two, most pets have already reached adulthood. At age four, many are entering middle age. By age seven, many dogs, particularly larger breeds, are entering their senior years.
Annual health checks can help your veterinarian diagnose, treat or even prevent problems before they become life-threatening. Because pets age so rapidly, major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. The risk of cancer, diabetes, obesity, arthritis, heart disease and other serious conditions all increase with age.
The most important points to consider when getting a health check on your pet is making sure that their vaccinations and parasite control are up to date. Listening to a patients heart to make sure it is functioning properly and doing regular dental examinations are also very important as changes can accure in a short period of time.
Blood testing is a very handy tool in making sure that your pet is healthy and are crutial in diagnosing any medical problems that would not show up in a physical exam. Health checks are also a great opportunity to ask us about nutrition, behaviour or any other issues.
Call us today to book a health check for your pet with our Veterinarian Dr John Hampson.