How old is my pet really?
Dogs are considered to be adults between the ages of 12-24 months, depending on the breed. Larger dogs mature at a later age.
Cats are considered to be mature adults at 12 months of age. During their adult years (1-8 years for dogs and 1-10 years for cats) we recommend an annual comprehensive physical examination, appropriate vaccination for infectious disease, examination of a stool sample for intestinal parasites, and heartworm testing for dogs.
Why is an annual physical examination important?
Dogs and cats have a relatively short adult life compared to humans, since every year of their life represents 5-6 human years. Obviously, dramatic changes in their health can occur over this time period. During the annual physical exam our veterinarian will:
- weigh your pet to assess whether there has been any significant change in the last year
- examine ears, eyes and skin for evidence of discharge, infection, growths or parasites
- recommend a grooming and nail trim if the coat is matted or the nails are over-grown
- conduct an oral examination to determine the condition of the teeth and gums, and to see if a dental cleaning may be required
- palpate limbs and joints for pain, swelling or masses
- examine the chest with a stethoscope to identify problems with heart rate, rhythm or murmurs (leaking valves, other defects) and also to listen for changes in lung sounds
- palpate the abdomen to determine if organs are normal is size and consistency, whether any unusual masses are present, or whether any pain exists
- rectally palpate the prostate gland in un-neutered dogs to assess prostatic size, position or pain
- discuss any concerns that you may have regarding your pet’s appetite, weight, nutrition, drinking, urinating, vomiting, diarrhea, lameness ,training, general appearance or demeanor
- examine a stool sample for intestinal parasites. If diarrhea has been a problem, a sample of stool will also be sent to our outside laboratory to check for parasites which require more sophisticated diagnostic testing
- perform a flea combing to check for fleas or flea dirt
What about protecting my dog from heartworm?
In dogs, an annual blood sample will be taken to screen for heartworm disease. This will enable your dog to safely go on heartworm preventive medication during the summer and fall months. Heartworm testing is not currently recommended for cats in Ontario, as the incidence of feline heartworm disease is very low.
Does my pet need any preventive tests?
Annual blood and urine tests may also be recommended at vaccination or heartworm testing time. This Wellness Screen will serve to identify early kidney and liver problems or evidence of infection or anemia before your pet has shown any outward signs. If all test values are normal, these results will also serve as a helpful frame of reference for any future testing. If a surgical procedure such as a dental cleaning or mass removal is determined to be necessary during the physical exam, these test values will serve as a pre-anesthetic screen prior to surgery. All anesthetics are metabolized by either the liver or kidneys and therefore it is extremely important that these organs are functioning normally in order to design an individualized anesthetic protocol.
Does my pet need vaccinations?
The appropriate vaccination protocol for your pet will be discussed during your vaccination appointment. Dogs and cats who spend time outdoors or associate with other animals will be at higher risk for some diseases. Additional vaccines may be recommended for these pets compared to their indoor counterparts. Yearly vaccinations provide an ideal opportunity to identify and treat any problems that your adult pet may be experiencing before they become significant health concerns. Early detection and treatment of a problem may allow your adult pet to enjoy many healthy, happy years as a senior member of your family.
