Twice Yearly Exams

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Exam, lab, senior, new, adopt, medication, preventive, sick, immune, changes, test, health, x-ray

Twice Yearly Exams

Twice Yearly Exams

It is one of my exam room mantras -- "all pets, especially seniors, need twice yearly examinations and yearly blood and urine testing. "I am glad I actually listened to myself.

Though my cat, Zachary, appeared to be perfectly fit, on his 16th birthday, I popped him into his carrier and brought him with me to work for his twice yearly exam. I am sure he thought this birthday present was as exciting as receiving a gift of underwear. I was surprised to discover that even though his lab tests a year earlier were absolutely normal, they weren't now. His test indicated that his kidneys were weakening and he had evidence of an overactive thyroid. By diagnosing these conditions early, I was able to monitor his lab values, modify his diet, and medicate him resulting in extending his good quality of life until 19 years old.

Pet owners are often skeptical when I discuss the need for twice yearly examinations. As a rule, people don't visit their own doctors unless they're ill. Veterinarians as a whole, practice preventative medicine. We want to prevent your pet from becoming ill and when we are able to diagnose a problem early they are usually easier and less expensive to treat and typically have a more favorable outcome.

Pets age more rapidly than you and I. As our bodies mature, things start to wear out. Internal organs and our immune systems weaken. The incidence of cancer ramps up. Even our ability to move around with ease becomes compromised. By having your pet visit your veterinarian at least every 6 months for a wellness exam, you and your veterinarian, working as a team can help to insure that your pet ages successfully.

You are a critical member of this team approach. You know your pet better than anyone else. Keep a wellness diary and make note of changes in - appetite, attitude, and body weight. Record any odor from the ears or mouth, jot down differences in water intake, bowel patterns, vision or ability to hear. Though these changes may be small, subtle can be significant.

Bring your diary with you to the wellness exams. This information is part of the history portion of the visit. Depending on the history and the physical examination, your veterinarian may recommend diagnostics such as blood and urine testing, an electrocardiogram to determine the heart's health, x-rays or possibly an ultrasound study. Together, the history, physical examination and diagnostics give your pet's doctor the most accurate assessment of your dog or cat's quality of life.

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Daily Pet News


Know Your Dog's Patterns
It has long been recognized that there are certain patterns in the causes of death of our dogs. Depending on age, sex, and breed, there are common causes that are understood by veterinarians. For example, infection and congenital diseases are more likely to prove fatal to puppies, while cancer becomes more and more common as dogs age. Doctors can use this information when looking for signs and symptoms in our dogs. Based on tendencies, your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate diet, examination and vaccine schedule, and exercise program.

Horses Gentle Giants
Horses can be fragile beings. Because they are designed to be extremely efficient, one small biomechanical dysfunction can lead to major problems. Pain, of course is not far behind. In order to manage the horse, pain and anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed in conjunction with physical therapy or chiropractic. A veterinarian can devise a treatment plan that will optimally benefit the horse.

That Bites! Horses and Insect Bites
A study suggests that the regular application of a topical ointment may provide some relief to horses suffering from insect bite hypersensitivity, or IBH. IBH is an allergic reaction that many horses have to insect bites. Symptoms include, itchiness, patches of hair loss, and calluses. Horses may scratch or rub itchy areas and causes oozing sores.

Your Dog Likes Me More
An interesting new study reveals that dogs are more likely to approach men than women. Neurotic owners and dogs seem to bond even more, sensing that they need each other. Calm and non-aggressive people also attract dogs much more than loud individuals. While researchers are uncertain why, they guess that it may be related to sex associated roles that have been observed in wolves.

Diabetes in Pets
Diabetes in cats and dogs is becoming more and more common. As obesity rises as does diabetes and heart disease. Offering good nutritious food and keeping treats to a minimum are essential to keeping pets healthy

Dogs and Autisim
Dogs are wonderful in many ways, but can they help families with autistic children? First off, they have a calming effect on both child and parent. They can help in establishing routines and can offer a buffer when dealing with the stresses of daily routines. And the bond between child and dog can help to bring focus to a sometimes chaotic environment.

Training Techniques
Training and interacting with your dog can be challenging without the right technique. That’s why experts have been studying dogs for years. Research has taught us that our canine companions respond much better to positive reinforcement and immediate correction using calm, deliberate movements. We should not dominate and intimidate our pets, but rather coach them towards intended behavior.

West Nile Risks
West Nile Virus, is just one of the many diseases carried by those pesky mosquitoes. So when walking your dog, avoid swamplands or areas with standing water. These are prime locations for the blood suckers. And just in case, be sure that your pet is up to date on its vaccinations. If you suspect your companion is suffering from any infectious disease, immediate medical intervention may safe its life.

Traveling With Your Pet
More than half of pet owners travel with their pets, and it’s important to keep their safety in mind when traveling. A common mistake is that most of us will let our pets roam around the car and some will even hold a pet while driving. This poses a very serious danger to all passengers, human or other. The impact of a 35 mile per hour car accident can be fatal to a non-secured pet; and can also turn it into a dangerous projectile. Crating or other restrictive methods will save lives.

Get With Your Vet
Teaming up with your veterinarian is important for your pet’s healthcare. Because you are around your companion around the clock, information about its eating habits, behavior, sleep patterns, and bathroom frequency need to be communicated to your veterinarian. Then your veterinarian can make informed decisions to benefit your pet.