3 Things to Check Off Your Veterinary Visit List
Prepping for your pet’s vet visit involves more than just getting your cat into the carrier without much drama. Knowing in advance what to expect and the questions your vet will ask will help you make the most of your pet’s appointment.
At Sunrise Boulevard Animal Hospital, we tailor our checkups for each pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors. But you know your pet better than anyone, so the information you share with us can have a significant impact on your pet’s health. Follow these three steps to prepare for your pet’s visit.
# 1: Annual Pet Check-Up Checklist
You are with your pet on a regular basis, noticing the nuances of her daily behavior and activity levels. Since some problems with pets are intermittent at first, keep this dog physical exam checklist (or feline physical exam checklist) nearby and jot down anything that comes to mind between checkups — even if an observation seems minor to you. When your pet’s visit arrives, you’ll have your concerns handy, and you’ll be prepared to answer our questions.
Dog (or Cat) Physical Exam Checklist:
- Have there been any changes in eating/drinking habits? (Related question: Have you noticed anything new with her potty habits?)
- Have you noticed any changes in your pet’s vision or hearing?
- Is there a foul odor coming from your pet’s mouth? (Related question: Has your pet lost any teeth?)
- Has your pet’s activity level increased or decreased?
- Is your pet scratching or biting one particular area?
- Have you noticed any lumps or bumps on the skin or beneath the surface?
- How is your pet’s breathing? Have you noticed any wheezing or excessive panting?
- Has your pet developed a limp or other physical change?
# 2: Gather Appropriate Information
Your veterinarian will also want to know:
- Brand of pet food and how often you feed your pet
- Names and dosages of nutritional supplements and prescription medications
- Past records if your pet previously saw another vet (or was adopted from a shelter)
# 3: Other Advance Tasks
If you are a new client, complete our New Client Form prior to your visit. If your veterinarian has requested a stool sample for parasite screening, simply enclose a recent sample in a baggie and bring it with you.
Now You’re Ready!
Routine wellness exams can help your pet live longer, increase her quality of life, and mitigate or prevent illnesses and medical conditions. Your pet’s visit includes a thorough physical examination, vaccines, and diagnostic screenings. We will ask questions about your pet, and we welcome your questions and concerns. Together, we can help your pet live a long, healthy life!
Please contact us to schedule a wellness exam or if you have any concerns about your pet. We look forward to providing your pet with exceptional veterinary care!