Cat & Dog Checkups in Lakewood

What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical Exam

In order to capture a complete snapshot of his or her general health, your Lakewood vet will thoroughly examine your dog or cat during their physical checkup. Routine exams at our animal clinic include these elements:

General Condition

Did you know we can gain insight into your pet's overall health by assessing their physical condition and general demeanor? Whether they are a healthy weight for their size, how they stand and walk, and their level of alertness all point to their general health. 

Coat & Skin

We will examine your cat or dog's coat and skin during their pet check-up to look for signs of problems, including dandruff, lumps, bumps, abnormal shedding or hair loss, or excessive dryness or oiliness. 

Face & Head

Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease. 

Internal Health

Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are vitally important to your pet's heart health. We'll test these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing. 

Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also examine the abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of discomfort. 

Review of Findings

At the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will take the time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements. 

Vet Checkups for Puppies & Kittens

To get off to a healthy start, puppies and kittens will need appropriate medical attention in their first few weeks of life. 

Our vets will give your furry best friend a thorough physical examination, appropriate immunizations, and deworming medication. We'll also test for intestinal parasites. You'll receive a puppy or kitten 'kit' full of samples and educational material to help you care for your newest family member. 

Please never hesitate to get in touch with us regarding any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, both during your appointments and in-between visits. 

Once your kitten or puppy's checkup is complete, you'll need to return periodically for the booster shots he or she will need.  

Vet Checkups for Senior Dogs & Cats

With recent advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care, as well as newer therapies and better nutrition, senior pets are living longer than ever.

While this is terrific news for pets and their owners, it means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet surpasses middle age, regular examinations become increasingly crucial to ensure their continuing health and longevity. 

In addition to the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will give special attention to your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.

Additional laboratory tests may be recommended for aging pets to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and wellbeing.