
Comprehensive Wellness Exams at LBC Vets: Nurturing Your Pet’s Lifelong Health
At LBC Vets, located at 1752 Clark Ave, Long Beach, CA 90815, we believe in proactive and comprehensive veterinary care to ensure the well-being of your cherished companions. Led by Dr. Alexis Kessler, our dedicated veterinary team provides thorough wellness exams that focus on preventative care and early detection of potential health issues.
About Our Wellness Exams:
What is Included in a Thorough Physical Exam for Your Dog or Cat?
Regular physical exams are an essential part of maintaining the health and well-being of your furry companions. Whether you have a dog, a cat, or both, these checkups provide an opportunity for your veterinarian to detect potential health issues early and ensure your pet is living a happy, healthy life. But what exactly does a thorough physical exam entail? Let’s break it down step by step.
1. History Taking
Before the physical examination begins, your veterinarian will ask about your pet’s health history, including:
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Diet and nutrition: What your pet eats and any recent changes in appetite.
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Behavior and activity level: Any changes in behavior, energy levels, or habits.
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Medical history: Past illnesses, surgeries, or ongoing health issues.
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Vaccination and parasite prevention: Review of your pet’s vaccination status and parasite control regimen.
This information helps the veterinarian tailor the exam to your pet’s specific needs.
2. General Observation
The physical exam often begins with a general observation of your pet’s overall appearance and demeanor. The veterinarian will look at:
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Posture and gait.
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Coat condition and grooming habits.
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Body condition score (BCS), assessing if your pet is underweight, overweight, or at an ideal weight.
3. Vital Signs
Your pet’s vital signs are checked to establish a baseline for their health:
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Temperature: Normal temperature ranges from 100.5°F to 102.5°F for both dogs and cats.
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Heart rate: Dogs typically range from 60-160 beats per minute, depending on size, while cats’ heart rates are usually between 140-220 beats per minute.
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Respiratory rate: Normal breathing rates are about 10-30 breaths per minute for dogs and 20-30 for cats.
4. Head-to-Tail Examination
A thorough physical exam involves a detailed inspection of each part of your pet’s body:
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Eyes: Checking for redness, cloudiness, discharge, or other abnormalities that could indicate infections, glaucoma, or cataracts.
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Ears: Examining for redness, swelling, odor, or debris that might signify ear infections or mites.
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Mouth and Teeth: Inspecting for signs of dental disease, broken teeth, gum inflammation, or oral tumors. Dental health significantly impacts overall health.
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Skin and Coat: Looking for signs of parasites (like fleas or ticks), dryness, redness, lumps, or bald patches. Skin health can reveal underlying issues such as allergies or infections.
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Lymph Nodes: Palpating lymph nodes around the neck, underarms, and groin for swelling or abnormalities.
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Abdomen: Feeling for unusual lumps, discomfort, or organ enlargement.
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Musculoskeletal System: Assessing for joint pain, stiffness, or mobility issues.
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Reproductive Organs: Checking for abnormalities like swelling, discharge, or tumors.
5. Heart and Lung Auscultation
Using a stethoscope, the veterinarian listens to your pet’s heart and lungs to:
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Detect heart murmurs or irregular rhythms.
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Identify signs of respiratory issues like wheezing, crackling, or labored breathing.
6. Palpation
The veterinarian will palpate (feel) different areas of your pet’s body to:
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Check for pain or discomfort.
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Assess the size and condition of internal organs like the liver, kidneys, and spleen.
7. Neurological and Reflex Tests
For some dogs & cats, the vet may perform basic neurological checks to assess reflexes, coordination, and responsiveness. This can help identify issues like nerve damage or neurological disorders.
8. Specialized Tests (If Needed)
If the veterinarian notices any abnormalities or if your pet has specific health concerns, additional diagnostic tests might be recommended, including:
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Blood tests.
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Urinalysis.
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X-rays or ultrasound.
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Skin scrapings or biopsies.
9. Preventative Care Review
During the visit, your vet will discuss:
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Updating vaccinations if needed.
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Parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms.
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Nutrition and exercise recommendations.
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Dental cleaning schedules.
10. Addressing Your Concerns
Lastly, the veterinarian will address any questions or concerns you have about your pet’s health, behavior, or lifestyle. This is a great time to bring up issues like excessive scratching, changes in appetite, or unusual behavior.
Why Regular Exams Matter
Annual (or biannual for senior dogs & cats) physical exams are critical for early detection of health problems. Many conditions, such as arthritis, kidney disease, or dental issues, progress slowly and may not be noticeable until they are advanced. Routine checkups ensure that your pet receives timely care and enjoys the best quality of life.
Conclusion
A thorough physical exam for your dog or cat is a comprehensive process that goes beyond simply checking for obvious signs of illness. It is an opportunity to establish a baseline for their health, detect potential problems early, and maintain a proactive approach to their care. By staying consistent with regular veterinary visits, you are giving your beloved companion the gift of a longer, healthier life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Does my dog need an annual exam?
As a devoted dog owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend lives a long, healthy, and happy life. One of the best ways to achieve this is through regular veterinary care, particularly annual exams. While it might seem like just another appointment, these check-ups are essential for your dog’s overall health and well-being. Here are several reasons why annual exams should be a priority for every dog owner.
1. Early Detection of Health Problems
Dogs can’t communicate their discomfort or health issues as we do, which makes it crucial to have regular check-ups. During an annual exam, your veterinarian can perform a thorough physical examination, helping to detect potential health problems before they become serious. Early intervention is key to successful treatment, and catching issues like dental disease, obesity, or skin conditions early can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.
2. Preventive Care
Preventive care is a cornerstone of veterinary medicine. During an exam, your vet will review your dog’s vaccination status and recommend any necessary vaccines to protect against common diseases. Additionally, they will check for parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms, and provide the necessary preventive treatments. By keeping your dog up-to-date on vaccinations and preventive care, you significantly reduce their risk of illness.
3. Weight Management and Nutrition Guidance
Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for your dog’s overall health. Obesity can lead to serious health problems, including diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease. Annual exams allow veterinarians to evaluate your dog’s weight and body condition. They can offer personalized dietary recommendations and exercise plans to help keep your dog fit and healthy.
4. Dental Health Assessment
Dental health is often overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in your dog’s well-being. Regular exams provide an opportunity for your vet to examine your dog’s teeth and gums for signs of dental disease, which is common in dogs. Early detection of dental issues can prevent pain and complications, and your vet can recommend appropriate dental care practices.
5. Behavioral Insights
Changes in behavior can be an indicator of underlying health issues. Annual exams allow you to discuss any behavioral changes you’ve noticed, such as increased aggression, anxiety, or lethargy. Your veterinarian can help determine whether these changes are related to health problems or if they require behavioral intervention.
6. Age Considerations
As dogs age, they become more susceptible to various health issues. Senior dogs, in particular, may face challenges such as arthritis, kidney disease, or cognitive dysfunction. Annual exams become increasingly important as your dog ages, allowing for regular monitoring and timely intervention if health issues arise.
7. Strengthening the Human-Animal Bond
Regular veterinary visits help build a trusting relationship between you, your dog, and the veterinary team. This ongoing relationship makes it easier to address any concerns you may have about your dog’s health or behavior, ensuring that your pet receives the best possible care.
Conclusion
Annual exams are an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership. They provide a proactive approach to your dog’s health, allowing for early detection of problems, preventive care, and personalized advice tailored to your furry friend’s needs. By prioritizing these check-ups, you’re taking an important step in ensuring that your dog leads a long, healthy, and happy life. So, don’t hesitate—schedule that annual exam today! Your canine companion will thank you for it with wagging tails and
Why are wellness exams important for senior feline and canines?
Why Wellness Exams Are Crucial for Senior Dogs and Cats
As our beloved dogs and cats grow older, their needs change, and they become more susceptible to health issues. Wellness exams for senior pets play a vital role in maintaining their quality of life and catching potential problems early. These routine checkups are more than just a visit to the veterinarian; they are a proactive approach to ensuring your senior dog or cat’s health and happiness.
What is a Senior Dog Or Cat Wellness Exam?
A senior wellness exam is a comprehensive health check tailored to older pets, typically starting at age 7 for dogs and cats. These exams focus on identifying age-related conditions and monitoring existing health issues. Your veterinarian will evaluate your senior dog or cat’s overall health through physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and discussions about their behavior and lifestyle.
Key Components of a Senior Wellness Exam
Physical Examination
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A thorough physical exam helps identify visible signs of aging, such as weight loss or gain, dental issues, lumps, or changes in mobility.
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The veterinarian will assess the eyes, ears, skin, coat, and teeth while checking for joint pain or stiffness.
Bloodwork
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Routine blood tests provide insights into organ function, including the kidneys and liver, and detect conditions like anemia or diabetes.
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A complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry panel are often included.
Urinalysis
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Analyzing urine samples helps detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, or diabetes.
Diagnostic Imaging
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X-rays or ultrasounds may be recommended to evaluate internal organs and detect conditions such as arthritis, tumors, or heart disease.
Dental Health Evaluation
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Dental disease is common in senior dogs and cats and can lead to pain, infection, and other complications.
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The veterinarian may recommend a professional dental cleaning or treatments if needed.
Weight and Nutrition Assessment
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Senior pets often experience weight changes due to metabolism or underlying health issues.
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Your veterinarian will discuss dietary adjustments to support your aging pet’s nutritional needs.
Behavior and Cognitive Health Assessment
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Changes in behavior, such as increased anxiety or disorientation, may indicate cognitive decline or other health issues.
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Your veterinarian can provide strategies to support cognitive health and improve quality of life.
Why Are Senior Wellness Exams Important?
Early Detection of Health Issues
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Many age-related conditions, such as arthritis, heart disease, or kidney problems, develop gradually and may not show obvious symptoms until they are advanced.
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Regular exams allow for early intervention, improving outcomes and treatment options.
Tailored Preventative Care
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Senior pets have unique needs that require specific vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dietary plans.
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Wellness exams help customize care to suit your senior dog or cat’s lifestyle and health status.
Improved Quality of Life
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Identifying and managing chronic conditions like pain or mobility issues ensures your pet remains comfortable and active as they age.
Extending Lifespan
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Proactive care significantly impacts your pet’s longevity by addressing potential problems before they become severe.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Senior Pet’s Wellness Exam
Prepare a Health History
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Note any changes in your dog or cat’s behavior, appetite, or activity levels since their last visit.
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Bring a list of medications or supplements they are taking.
Ask Questions
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Discuss concerns about your pet’s health, including changes in their daily habits or new symptoms you’ve noticed.
Follow Recommendations
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Be open to your veterinarian’s advice on diagnostic tests, dietary changes, or treatments. These are designed to enhance your pet’s health.
Schedule Regular Checkups
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Senior pets should see the veterinarian at least twice a year for wellness exams, even if they appear healthy.
Conclusion
Wellness exams are essential for senior dogs and cats because they help detect health problems early, provide tailored preventative care, and ensure a higher quality of life. By investing in routine checkups for your aging companion, you can enjoy more years of love, joy, and companionship together. Prioritize your senior pet’s health today and give them the best possible care during their golden years.
Does my indoor cat need annual wellness exams
Yes, even indoor cats benefit from an annual veterinary exam. While they are less likely to encounter outdoor hazards, they can still experience health issues that may not be immediately obvious to you. Here are some reasons why annual exams are important for indoor cats:
- Preventive Care: Regular check-ups allow your veterinarian to assess your cat’s overall health, including weight, dental health, and coat condition, and to administer vaccinations if needed.
- Early Detection of Illnesses: Cats are masters at hiding symptoms of illness. Regular exams can help detect conditions like dental disease, obesity, diabetes, or kidney disease early, when they are easier to treat.
- Age-Related Monitoring: As cats age, their health needs change. Annual exams help monitor for age-related conditions and ensure your cat is aging healthily.
- Parasite Control: Even indoor cats can be exposed to fleas, ticks, or intestinal parasites through other pets, humans, or items brought into the home.
- Tailored Advice: Your vet can provide recommendations on diet, behavior, and environmental enrichment to ensure your cat stays happy and healthy.
If your cat is a senior (typically 7 years or older), your vet might recommend exams every 6 months instead of annually.
What should I bring to a wellness exam?
Bring your pet's medical history, including vaccination records and details about their diet and lifestyle. If your pet is exhibiting any specific symptoms, provide that information as well.
For comprehensive and personalized wellness exams that prioritize your pet’s health, contact LBC Vets at (562) 579-4485. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Alexis Kessler to establish a wellness plan tailored to your pet’s unique needs.