Cat & Dog Wellness Exams

What to Expect During Your Pet's Vet Checkup in Mechanicsburg

To capture a complete picture of your pet's general health, your Mechanicsburg vet will give your dog or cat a thorough physical checkup. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include these elements: 

General Condition

Did you know your pet's physical condition and general demeanor can yield valuable insights into their overall health? How they stand and walk, whether they are a healthy weight for their size and their level of alertness are all important indicators of overall health. 

Coat & Skin

During your pet's checkup, your cat or dog's skin and coat will be checked for signs of problems, such as lumps, bumps, abnormal hair loss or shedding, dandruff, excessive oiliness or dryness. 

Face & Head

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

Internal Health

Heart rhythm and rate, blood pressure and pulse are each vitally important to your pet's heart health. These will be tested to ensure they are normal. We will then examine the lungs for evidence of abnormal breathing. 

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

Review of Findings

To finish your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will dedicate time to discussing any concerns either of you may have about your pet's overall health and review your dog or cat's nutritional requirements with you. 

Checkups for Puppies & Kittens

Puppies and kittens need proper medical attention in their first few weeks of life to help them get off to a healthy start. 

Your new best friend will get a complete physical examination, deworming medication and appropriate immunizations. They will also be tested for intestinal parasites. You will receive a puppy or kitten 'kit' filled with samples and educational material to help you care for your newest family member. 

Please never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, both during your appointments or between visits. 

Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for his or her required booster shots. 

Seniors

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.