Routine Checkups for Companion Pets
Wellness exams are critical to helping your cat or dog maintain good health and wellness.
Combined with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention, and proper nutrition, these routine examinations include regular physical checkups to give your pet the best chance at excellent lifelong health.
We can prevent health issues from developing in your pet or catch them early, when they are most treatable, if you bring your dog or cat in for a routine checkup.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
A pet checkup in Sturgis consists of a thorough physical exam to get a complete picture of your dog or cat's overall health. Routine wellness exams at our animal clinic include the following elements:
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
A pet checkup consists of a thorough physical exam to get a complete picture of your dog or cat's overall health. Routine exams at our animal clinic include evaluation of the following:
General Condition
Your pet's general demeanor and physical condition can provide clues to its overall health. How they stand and walk, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.
Coat & Skin
During your pet's checkup, we will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of problems, including excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss or shedding.
Face & Head
Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are vitally important to your pet's heart health. We'll test these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing. Lymph nodes will also be examined for pain or swelling, and the abdomen will be examined to ensure that the internal organs are normal.
Review of Findings
At the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will take the time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
In their first few weeks of life, puppies and kittens need appropriate medical attention to make sure they get off to a healthy start.
We'll give your new best friend a complete physical examination, deworming medication, and appropriate immunizations. We will also test for intestinal parasites. You'll receive a puppy or kitten 'kit' full of educational material and samples to help you care for your newest family member.
Please never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you might have about caring for your new pet, both during your appointments or in-between visits.
Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for his or her required booster shots.
More About Puppy & Kitten Care
Checkups for Senior Dogs & Cats
With recent advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care, as well as newer therapies and better nutrition, senior pets are living longer than ever.
While this is terrific news for pets and their owners, it means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet surpasses middle age, regular examinations become increasingly crucial to ensure their continuing health and longevity.
Additional laboratory tests may be recommended for aging pets to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and well-being.
Pet Food at Sturgis Veterinary Hospital & Equine Center
We offer nutritious, high-quality pet food on-site. We also stock a range of prescription and therapeutic foods. You can pick up your pet's food after their wellness exam, or come visit us to simply grab food for your dog or cat.