why annual pet exams are important

You already know that it's important to go to the doctor once a year for your annual checkup; did you know the same is true of your pet? An annual wellness exam from an experienced veterinarian is vital for your pet's continued health and physical well-being. While you should never hesitate to bring your dog or pet to the vet if you suspect a problem, wellness exams should be scheduled regularly to ensure that everything is going well. The frequency of your visits will depend on your pet's age: generally, for puppies and kittens, visits should be scheduled every few weeks to make sure vaccines are administered on schedule. Once vaccinations are complete, visits once a year are the general expectation. Your vet will let you know what they recommend. 

Annual Exam

During your pet's annual exam, the vet will check its fur, skin, throat, ears, nose, and eyes for any abnormalities. They will also check your pet's posture and feel their glands and abdomen for any lumps, swelling, or pain. This is the time to bring up any concerns you might have or unusual behaviors you might have noticed, so your vet can investigate further. 

Potential Problems

One of the major bonuses of annual checkups is the potential to catch potential problems before they escalate into something serious or irreversible. This can encompass vision problems, cancer, or other conditions that might be difficult to detect if you spend every day with your pet and don't notice gradual changes.

Vaccinations

Your vet will keep track of any necessary preventative medications that your pet needs. Vaccinations are necessary to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other conditions. These preventative measures are essential to helping your pet live a long and happy life. 

Dental Health

You don't always think about your pet's teeth, but it's just as important to keep their teeth clean as it is to regularly brush your own. Unfortunately, dental and periodontal problems are common in animal teeth. During your appointment, your vet will check your dog or cat's teeth and gums to make sure they are in good oral health.

If you have a furry friend, the best way to keep them healthy is to schedule an annual veterinary examination. Small Animal Medical Center is proud to provide quality care to pets across Brownwood, Comanche, Brady, San Saba, Coleman, Goldthwaite, TX and the surrounding communities. Whether you're actively noticing an issue with your animal or not, wellness exams are just as important to pets, as they are to people. No matter your pet's needs, our veterinarian hospital will ensure that they are comfortable and calm throughout the entire visit. If you're looking to update your pet's vaccinations or schedule a wellness exam, please feel free to contact our veterinary hospital in Brownwood, TX. We look forward to meeting you and your pet!