26, Dec 2022
Pet Wellness Checks and Diagnostics Involved

The expression “pet wellness exam” refers to a routine examination performed on an animal even when your pet appears healthy. The word “wellness exam” can also apply to a physical exam or a check-up. Wellness exams are conducted to ensure that your pet is in optimal health.

Check-ups for puppies and other young animals are recommended every month. A typical adult pet should visit a vet yearly for a check-up. Check-ups for pets who are older are scheduled at least every six months. Ask your veterinarian about the frequency of wellness exams if your pet suffers from a particular ailment.

Tests Done on Pet Wellness Exams

Even the most healthy pets could hide from illness due to their remarkable capacity for deception. If a pet’s health issue is identified before it shows any signs, it will generally be managed or treated to limit the adverse effects that may occur over time. The tests to assess a pet’s health typically include the following.

1. Complete Blood Count

This method teaches us about the different types of blood cells. Blood cells play various roles, including transporting oxygen to cells, fighting infection and inflammation, and aiding with clotting blood. The complete count of blood (CBC) can tell you if you have any abnormal cells as well as their amount of size, number, and type. It’s a standard test for diagnosing a wide range of diseases.

2. Biochemistry Profile

This battery of tests can help diagnose diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, and other illnesses by providing information on the body’s organs and tissues. Your doctor may suggest conducting a biochemistry analysis in the next few days, weeks, or months if it reveals only subtle changes from normal. A more detailed biochemistry profile done in a vet lab and imaging tests like radiographs (X-rays) or ultrasounds can be recommended in cases where the abnormalities are more serious.

3. Urinalysis

A simple urinalysis will reveal the physical and chemical properties. The results of a urine test are used to evaluate the condition of kidneys, identify urinary tract infections and rule out inflammation. In addition, it aids in identifying cancers of the urinary tract and detecting diabetes. Every wellness check in a Charlotte animal hospital should consist of urine tests to give you a complete view of how well your urinary tract and kidneys are.

4. Thyroid Testing

The thyroid gland is the body’s thermostat, controlling metabolism. If the thyroid gland does not generate sufficient thyroid hormone, it is known as Hypothyroidism. It is dogs’ most frequently encountered thyroid disease. Conducting regular hormone tests for senior and middle-aged dogs is vital. Hypothyroidism is a condition that can affect dogs at any age. It’s, therefore, essential to check for it if a dog suddenly gains weight, becomes tired, frequently has skin or ear infections, or loses hair on its body or tail.

5. Fecalysis

Fecal tests are recommended every year at least two times for the majority of pets. The main objective is to spot gastrointestinal parasites such as hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and roundworms. These parasites thrive in your pet’s digestive tract and can be a nightmare for both of you. The eggs or worms are transported in tiny amounts through your pet’s feces, making them easy to detect under a microscope.

Aside from pet wellness examinations, you can also avail of boarding services from trusted veterinary hospitals, like Sharon Lakes Animal Hospital, to ensure your pet’s safety and security when you are away.