Pet Wellness Care: Build a Foundation for Lifelong Health

A relationship with your veterinarian is the best gift you can give your pet. The time to begin that relationship is now, by scheduling your pet’s veterinary Wellness Exam.

The professionals at Madison Veterinary Hospital create a comprehensive history of your pet including breed knowledge, behavior and training, treatment records, and your family lifestyle. Then, should your animal companion become ill or injured, our veterinarians can work swiftly to address these concerns in an informed manner.

The Wellness Exam begins with a head-to-toe checkup, with the veterinarian observing the condition of the coat, skin, muscles, joints, and the general attitude of your pet. In addition to this hands-on physical assessment, the Wellness Exam includes a panel of blood tests and urinalysis. This blood work screens for kidney and liver problems, diabetes, anemia, and problems with the urinary tract.

Your adult pet should have a Wellness Exam at least once every year. Often, potential health risks are diagnosed during this exam and we are able to address them before they become major problems. This is also a great opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns you may have, including vaccinations, nutritional needs, and behavioral issues.

We recommend an annual Wellness Exam for patients between the ages of 2 and 6 years. Pets under 1 year old will have a separate Wellness protocol, to be certain they are protected from disease and are growing into healthy adults. Visit the Puppies and Kittens page for more about that subject.

For older patients, a more extensive set of tests called a Senior Workup is recommended.

Heartworm and Flea Prevention

Heartworms are internal parasites that live in a pet’s circulatory system and heart. They are transmitted when a mosquito, infected with heartworm larvae, bites a pet. The heartworms migrate to the heart, where they grow and reproduce.

Heartworms can cause serious health problems, including death. While these parasites are more prevalent in dogs, your cat could also be at risk as well. Fortunately, heartworms can be detected with a simple blood test, and there are treatment options available. However, a monthly preventive is the best way to ensure your pet’s health.

Fleas and ticks are external parasites that may infest your dog or cat. Flea bites can cause extreme itchiness and discomfort for your pet, as well as tapeworms and anemia in severe cases.

Parasite prevention is a big part of our Wellness Exam. Both internal and external parasites are easily prevented with monthly medication. Testing for parasites begins with the first Wellness Exam, and regular preventive medication is our approach to protecting your pet. Prevention is easy — discuss the best approach for your pet at your next Wellness Exam.